During the first semester, we focused on implementing flexion and extension of the index finger using a servo motor as our actuator. This semester we will explore the use of artificial muscles as actuators.
Here is a side by side comparison of the two different actuation methods.
Servo Motors
- Based on the received signal, the actuator will create movement
- Rotational or linear direction
- Variety of sizes and features
Artificial Muscles
- Any material that contracts and expands when a stimulus is applied to it, such as temperature. To mimic muscle fibers like behavior.
- Benefits:
- Resembles natural muscle fibers.
