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Monolithic electrostatic actuators with independent stiffness modulation

Author

Listed:
  • Yuejun Xu

    (Imperial College London)

  • Jian Wen

    (Imperial College London
    Xi’an Jiaotong University)

  • Etienne Burdet

    (Imperial College London)

  • Majid Taghavi

    (Imperial College London
    Queen Mary University of London)

Abstract

Robotic artificial muscles, inspired by the adaptability of biological muscles, outperform rigid robots in dynamic environments due to their flexibility. However, the intrinsic compliance of the soft actuators restricts force transmission capacity and dynamic response. Biological muscle modulates their stiffness and damping, varying viscoelastic properties and force in interaction with the surroundings. Here we replicate this function in the electro-stiffened ribbon actuator, a monolithic strong actuator capable of high contraction and stiffness modulation. electro-stiffened ribbon actuator employs dielectric-liquid-amplified electrostatic forces for contraction, and electrorheological fluid for rapid (

Suggested Citation

  • Yuejun Xu & Jian Wen & Etienne Burdet & Majid Taghavi, 2025. "Monolithic electrostatic actuators with independent stiffness modulation," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 16(1), pages 1-15, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:16:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-025-56455-z
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-56455-z
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    References listed on IDEAS

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