Electroactive polymer (EAP) actuators for future humanlike robots

Yoseph Bar-Cohen

doi:10.1117/12.815298

6 April 2009 Electroactive polymer (EAP) actuators for future humanlike robots

Yoseph Bar-Cohen

Proceedings Volume 7287, Electroactive Polymer Actuators and Devices (EAPAD) 2009; 728703 (2009) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.815298
Event: SPIE Smart Structures and Materials + Nondestructive Evaluation and Health Monitoring, 2009, San Diego, California, United States

Abstract

Human-like robots are increasingly becoming an engineering reality thanks to recent technology advances. These robots, which are inspired greatly by science fiction, were originated from the desire to reproduce the human appearance, functions and intelligence and they may become our household appliance or even companion. The development of such robots is greatly supported by emerging biologically inspired technologies. Potentially, electroactive polymer (EAP) materials are offering actuation capabilities that allow emulating the action of our natural muscles for making such machines perform lifelike. There are many technical issues related to making such robots including the need for EAP materials that can operate as effective actuators. Beside the technology challenges these robots also raise concerns that need to be addressed prior to forming super capable robots. These include the need to prevent accidents, deliberate harm, or their use in crimes. In this paper, the potential EAP actuators and the challenges that these robots may pose will be reviewed.

Citation Download Citation

Yoseph Bar-Cohen "Electroactive polymer (EAP) actuators for future humanlike robots", Proc. SPIE 7287, Electroactive Polymer Actuators and Devices (EAPAD) 2009, 728703 (6 April 2009); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.815298

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