Work

A Fluid Elastomeric Actuator Design for Soft Robots

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The field of robotics faces significant challenges in creating adaptable and flexible end-effectors. Soft robotics, specifically soft robotic end-effectors, offer an innovative solution. This paper focuses on designing fluid elastomeric actuators (FEAs) for soft robotic end-effectors. The study presents key design considerations and evaluates the use of Finite Element Method (FEM) simulations for optimizing FEA performance. The study then concludes by proposing design guidelines for developing application-specific fluid elastomeric actuators.

Source: Actuators

DOI: 10.3390/act14090417

Authors: Dennis Els, Theo van Niekerk, Paolo Mercorelli, Jacques Welgemoed

Institutions: Nelson Mandela University, Leuphana University of Lüneburg

Language: English

Topic: Soft Robotics and Applications

Subfield: Biomedical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896

Funder: Nelson Mandela University