Link to project page: https://www.disneyresearch.com/publication/fluid-soft-actuator/
We present a passive, fluid-based transmission which allows robot arms to achieve fast and graceful motion by removing heavy electric motors from the arms and mounting them to the body instead. This lightweight, low friction transmission is particularly suited for robotic applications that require delicate movements and compliant physical interaction with people. This transmission can also be used passively, without motors, for remote manipulation of objects, or remote puppeting of mechanical characters. The puppeteer receives direct haptic feedback during operation, including the ability to feel surface textures, when the transmission is filled with water rather than air. We also constructed a lightweight version of the transmission that operates under vacuum pressures and connects to robot joints using string tendons; these actuators are made entirely of soft, non-metallic materials.
Post time: Jun-03-2017