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Chemically Driven Oscillating Soft Pneumatic Actuation
Marcos Villeda-Hernandez1,2,3, Benjamin C Baker1, Christian Romero4,5
1School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom.
Soft Robotics
|June 29, 2023
Summary
This study explores chemical reactions to power soft robots. Researchers developed chemo-pneumatic actuators for autonomous, controlled actuation, enabling versatile soft robot applications.
Area of Science:
- Soft Robotics
- Chemical Engineering
- Materials Science
Background:
- Pneumatic actuators are key in soft robotics due to their low cost, scalability, and compliance.
- A major challenge is developing controlled, ecologically compatible chemical energy sources for pneumatic actuation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate chemical reactions as both positive and negative pressure sources for soft robotic pneumatic actuators.
- To investigate the coupling of gas evolution and consumption reactions for oscillating systems.
Main Methods:
- Evaluated several gas evolution/consumption reactions based on pneumatic demands, chemical mechanisms, and safety.
- Developed oscillating systems using complementary carbon dioxide evolution and consumption.
- Controlled actuation speed by adjusting feed material ratios.
Main Results:
- Achieved autonomous cyclic actuation by coupling chemical reactions with pneumatic soft-matter actuators.
- Demonstrated reversibility and practical application in a soft gripper capable of object manipulation.
- Successfully controlled actuation speed via feed material ratios.
Conclusions:
- Chemical reactions offer a viable pathway for powering soft robots.
- Chemo-pneumatic actuators represent a significant advancement toward more autonomous and versatile soft robots.
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