Actuators for simulating muscle activity in robotics
US5697285A · kind A · utility
168Cited by
13References
36Claims
0Family size
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 21, 1995 |
| Grant date | Dec 16, 1997 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 21, 2015 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B17/00234
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus generates power at micro-scale dimensions that is sufficient to simulate the muscle activity required by the joints of robotic fingers. The apparatus includes a bellows device for generating a motion stimulus in response to pressure changes within the bellows. A configuration of programmable micromachined valves is used to regulate the flow of pressurized fluid within the bellows. A microprocessor is responsive to motion commands for controlling the operation of the apparatus. The apparatus is configured as an integrated device that is coupled to the articulations of a robotic hand via suitable attachment mechanisms.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.