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A Hexagonal Soft Robot Driven by High-Frequency HASEL Actuators

  • Chao Cao
  • , Shaonan Shi
  • , Yao Li*
  • , Bing Li
  • *Corresponding author for this work
  • School of Robotics and Advanced Manufacture, Harbin Institute of Technology Shenzhen

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

This study presents a high-performance hexagonal soft robot weighing 13.1 grams and driven by hydraulic-amplified self-healing electrostatic (HASEL) actuators. The robot integrates a central elastic spring within a 7-centimeter frame, enabling synchronized electrohydraulic expansion to achieve efficient motion. We systematically investigated its frequency response (8-12 Hz) and observed distinct voltage-dependent resonance behavior. Under a 5 kV excitation, the robot achieved a peak motion velocity of 40.65 mm/s (0.58 body lengths/s) at 8 Hz and a maximum steering agility of 21.71 degrees/s at 9 Hz. A comparative analysis at 4 kV revealed a resonance shift, with peak motion (31.37 mm/s) occurring at 9 Hz, highlighting the complex coupling between fluid damping and structural elasticity. Furthermore, the differential drive control system enabled agile manipulation, validating the system’s potential as a frequency-modulated high-speed soft robot.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication2026 7th International Conference on Mechatronics Technology and Intelligent Manufacturing, ICMTIM 2026
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc.
Pages142-145
Number of pages4
ISBN (Electronic)9798331561789
DOIs
StatePublished - 2026
Externally publishedYes
Event7th International Conference on Mechatronics Technology and Intelligent Manufacturing, ICMTIM 2026 - Guangzhou, China
Duration: 17 Apr 202619 Apr 2026

Publication series

Name2026 7th International Conference on Mechatronics Technology and Intelligent Manufacturing, ICMTIM 2026

Conference

Conference7th International Conference on Mechatronics Technology and Intelligent Manufacturing, ICMTIM 2026
Country/TerritoryChina
CityGuangzhou
Period17/04/2619/04/26

Keywords

  • Electro-hydraulic drive
  • Frequency-modulated control
  • Soft robot
  • component

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