Production Parameters and Thermo-Mechanical Performance of Twisted and Coiled Artificial Muscles (TCAMs)
Year: 2025
Type: conference-paper
Abstract: High-strength polymer fibers such as nylon 6, nylon 6,6, and polyethylene are utilized to produce Twisted and Coiled Artificial Muscles (TCAMs) through the twisting of low-cost fibers. These artificial muscles exhibit high displacement and specific power, particularly under electrothermal actuation, which requires conductive elements. An experimental setup was developed to produce, thermally treat, and characterize commercially available nylon 6,6 fibers coated with silver. The results demonstrate that TCAMs can contract by over 15% and generate forces up to 2.5 N with minimal energy input. Key factors such as motor speed, applied load, and fiber geometry affect the overall performance.
Institution: University of Calabria
Language: English
Subfield: Mechanical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
OpenAlex ID: W4407519382