This technology involves bonding conductive particles to the surface of an actuator body—made by twisting non-conductive polymer fibers into a coil structure—using a chemical reduction technique. This enables electrothermal actuation via applied electricity and self-sensing of resistance changes based on length variations.
Existing polymer-based actuators suffer from reduced safety due to high operating temperatures (over 200°C), as well as increased weight, bulk, and compromised flexibility in wearable devices caused by the need for separate feedback sensors and mounting components.
This technology imparts conductivity to a body formed by twisting spandex and polyethylene fibers by chemically reducing silver precursors on its surface. It is designed for low-temperature operation (below 80°C) and monitors contraction deformation in real-time by measuring the actuator's own resistance changes, eliminating the need for external sensors. Applicable to robotic gripping, precision measurement, and automated equipment, it improves operating temperature ranges, reduces the need for additional sensors and components, and enhances the monitoring capabilities of fiber-type actuators.
This invention was developed with support from the Ministry of Science and ICT for the development of an in-vivo closed-loop system using electronic sutures for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease.
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