Abstract
In soft robotics, actuators, logic and power systems can be entirely fluidic and electronics-free. However, sensors still typically rely on electric or optical principles. This adds complexity to fluidic soft robots because transducers are needed, and electrical materials have to be incorporated. Herein, we show a highly-stretchable pneumatic strain gauge based on a meandering microchannel in a soft elastomer material thus eliminating the need for an electrical signal in soft robots. Using such pneumatic sensors, we demonstrate an all-pneumatic gripper with integrated pneumatic strain gauges that is capable of autonomous closure and object recognition. The gauges can measure at least up to 300% engineering strains. The sensor exhibits a very stable signal over a 12-hour measurement period with no hysteresis. Using pneumatic sensors, all four major components of robots—actuators, logic, power, and sensors—can be pneumatic, enabling all-fluidic soft robots with proprioception and exteroception.
Original language | English |
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Article number | 14 |
Number of pages | 10 |
Journal | Communications Engineering |
Volume | 1 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2022 |
Publication type | A1 Journal article-refereed |
Publication forum classification
- Publication forum level 0
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Koivikko, A. (Creator), Lampinen, V. (Creator), Pihlajamäki, M. (Creator), Yiannacou, K. (Creator), Sharma, V. (Creator) & Sariola, V. (Creator), Zenodo, 29 Jun 2022
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