Rotary Actuators Based on Pneumatically Driven Elastomeric Structures

Adv Mater. 2016 Sep;28(34):7533-8. doi: 10.1002/adma.201600660. Epub 2016 Jun 27.

Abstract

Unique elastomeric rotary actuators based on pneumatically driven peristaltic motion are demonstrated. Using silicone-based wheels, these motors enable a new class of soft locomotion not found in nature, which is capable of withstanding impact, traversing irregular terrain, and operating in water. For soft robotics, this work marks progress toward providing torque without bending actuators.

Keywords: elastomers; locomotion; peristalsis; pneumatics; soft robots; wheels.