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Multi-directional crawling robot with soft actuators and electroadhesive grippers

  • Krishna Manaswi Digumarti
  • , Chongjing Cao
  • , Jianglong Guo
  • , Andrew T. Conn
  • , Jonathan Rossiter

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

Abstract

This paper presents the design of a planar, low profile, multi-directional soft crawling robot. The robot combines soft electroactive polymer actuators with compliant electroadhesive feet. A theoretical model of a multi-sector dielectric elastomer actuator is presented. The relation between actuator stroke and blocking force is experimentally validated. Electrostatic adhesion is employed to provide traction between the feet of the robot and the crawling surface. Shear force is experimentally determined and forces up to 3N have been achieved with the current pad design. A 2D multi-directional gait is demonstrated with the robot prototype. Speeds up to 12mm/s (0.1 body-lengths/s) have been observed. The robot has the potential to move on a variety of surfaces and across gradients, a useful ability in scenarios involving exploration.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication2018 IEEE International Conference on Soft Robotics, RoboSoft 2018
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc.
Pages303-308
Number of pages6
ISBN (Electronic)9781538645161
DOIs
StatePublished - 5 Jul 2018
Externally publishedYes
Event1st IEEE International Conference on Soft Robotics, RoboSoft 2018 - Livorno, Italy
Duration: 24 Apr 201828 Apr 2018

Publication series

Name2018 IEEE International Conference on Soft Robotics, RoboSoft 2018

Conference

Conference1st IEEE International Conference on Soft Robotics, RoboSoft 2018
Country/TerritoryItaly
CityLivorno
Period24/04/1828/04/18

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