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Locally Addressable Energy Efficient Actuation of Magnetic Soft Actuator Array Systems
Michiel Richter1, Jakub Sikorski1,2, Pavlo Makushko3
1Surgical Robotics Laboratory, Department of Biomechanical Engineering, University of Twente, Drienerlolaan 5, Enschede, 7500 AE, The Netherlands.
Advanced Science (Weinheim, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany)
|June 18, 2023
Summary
Researchers developed new magnetic soft machines (MSMs) using flexible coils and magnetoresponsive polymers. These compact, energy-efficient MSMs offer enhanced control and programmability for small-scale robotic applications.
Area of Science:
- Robotics
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Magnetic soft machines (MSMs) are emerging as key components for small-scale robotics.
- Near-field MSMs offer advantages in energy efficiency and compactness.
- Existing near-field MSMs face limitations in motion programmability, dimensionality, collaborative capabilities, and structural flexibility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce a novel class of near-field magnetic soft machines (MSMs).
- To address the limitations of current near-field MSMs regarding control and functionality.
- To demonstrate enhanced programmability and collaborative task performance in MSMs.
Main Methods:
- Development of MSMs integrating microscale-thickness flexible planar coils with magnetoresponsive polymer effectors.
- Application of ultrathin manufacturing techniques for coil and effector fabrication.
- Magnetic programming of effectors to precisely control their response to nonhomogeneous near-fields.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated successful manipulation capabilities including lifting, tilting, pulling, and grasping.
- Achieved high operational frequency (25 Hz) and low energy consumption (0.5 W).
- Fabricated ultrathin (80 µm) and lightweight (100 gm⁻²) MSMs.
Conclusions:
- The new class of near-field MSMs overcomes previous limitations in programmability and functionality.
- These MSMs are suitable for integration into portable electronic devices due to their compact and energy-efficient design.
- The demonstrated capabilities pave the way for advanced applications in micro-robotics and portable electronics.
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