Scalable woven actuators revolutionizing wearable robotics

Innovations in Textile Engineering for Robotics and Wearable Technology

Advancements in Device Adaptability and Performance

In recent years, the continuous innovation by electronics engineers had led to the development of increasingly adaptable, high-performance devices suited for a broad spectrum of practical applications. A key area of this progress includes the design of intelligent and responsive textiles, poised to revolutionize the creation of flexible robotic systems, medical equipment, and wearable technology.

Development of Woven and Soft Actuators at Jiangnan University

Introduction of Innovative Textile Engineering Techniques

Jiangnan, University researchers have developed an innovative textile engineering technique to produce woven and soft actuators, tailored for health care and robotic application. Published in Cell Report Physical Science, their scalable and easily customizable approach is poised for large-scale adoption.

Limitations of Traditional Techniques

Dr. Fengxin Sun, corresponding author of the study, explained to Tech Xplore that traditional techniques such as 3D printing and elastomer casting have fallen short in meeting the demands for adaptable, comfortable, and cost-effective solutions in soft robotics and wearable devices, particularly when it comes to creating flexible, functional, and scalable integrated devices.

Advancements in Weaving Techniques

Implementation of Two-System Weaving

Inspired by the traditional 'yarn-to-cloths' production process, we implemented a two-system weaving approach, allowing for the seamless integration of sensing capabilities and actuation modes within soft robotic 'garments.'

Customization and Fabrication Method

The method developed by Dr. Sun and his team organizes warp and weft yarns--the essential components of fabric--into clear planer structure during weaving. This enables the precise customization of woven actuators through carefull programming of the yarns' placement and composition.

Real--Time Sensing and Performance Data

Dr. Sun noted that their approach facilitates personalized morphing and real-time sensing feedback, making woven actuators highly suitable for applications such as rehabilitation wearables. The fabrication of the sensing yarn is straightforward, akin to braiding hair. Conductive yarns are braided helically around elastic core yarns using an industrial braiding machine, forming electrical pathways.

Strain Detection and Actuator Performance

When the actuator yarn is stretched, the helices of the conductive yarns separate, interrupting the flow of electric current. This change in structure alters the electrical signals within the yarn, enabling strain detection.

Dr. Sun explained that the sensing yarns we developed are seamlessly integrated into the fabric of our woven actuators. As the actuator moves, the yarn's resistance changes, providing valuable data on its performance.

Advantages of Seamless Integration

One unique aspect of the sensing yarns created buy the team is their seamless integration into the fabric. As a result, they add no extra weight, stiffness, or bulk, enabling actuators to track their movements while preserving their flexibility and adaptability.

Flexible and Scalable Solutions

Addressing 'Balloon-Like' Inflation Issues

"Thanks to our tow-system weaving approach, we can customize woven pneumatic actuators to inflate in exact directions, effectively mitigating the 'balloon-like' inflation issue that has been a challenge for the soft robotic community," said Dr. Sun.

Multi-Morphing Actuators for Versatile Applications

Our weaving strategy also delivers a flexible and scalable solution for creating multi-morphing soft actuators. These actuators can achieve bilateral bending, twisting, and spiraling with just one air supply, achieved by modifying yarn tension, density, and woven configuration.

Potential Applications in Robotic Grippers

The researchers illustrated how their yarn could be utilized to develop bilateral bending actuators, which may serve as soft robotic grippers. Such grippers could simulate animal movements, such as the stretching of octopus tentacles to draw and grip objects.

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