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UEC Int’l Mini-Conference No.53 61

EHD Technology applied to Soft Robotics

Ahmed ROMAN* and Jun SHINTAKE
Department of Mechanical and Intelligent Systems Engineering
The University of Electro-Communications
Tokyo, Japan

Keywords: electrohydrodynamic pumps, soft robotics, soft actuators, artificial muscles, McKibben muscles.

Abstract

Soft robotic actuators have gained significant attention due to their flexibility, adaptability, and
ability to safely interact with delicate objects. Traditional actuation methods, such as pneumatic
and hydraulic systems, often face limitations in terms of energy efficiency, response time, and
scalability. This research explores the integration of Electrohydrodynamic (EHD) technology
into soft robotic actuators, focusing on PneuNet and McKibben actuators. EHD actuation
leverages the movement of ionized fluids under an electric field to achieve precise, silent, and
lightweight motion control. By applying EHD principles to these well-established soft actuator
designs, we aim to enhance their efficiency, miniaturization potential, and response dynamics.

*The author is supported by (AiQuSci) MEXT Scholarship