Abstract:

Magnetoactive polymer elements undergo reversible magneto-deformation and changes in mechanical modulus when subjected to thermal and magnetic field gradients. This makes the design of actuators and soft microrobots possible. In addition, the integration of electromagnetic and electrostatic elements within magnetoactive polymer actuators has led to the development of a whole range of new smart devices, e.g., adaptive sensors relevant to soft robotics. With the assistance of new 6D printing techniques, it is possible to control additive orientation and the particle diffusion gradient in precise manner.

Keywords: magnetoactive polymer; shape memory; electroadhesion; electret; thermal stimulation; thermoplastic; 6D printing; locomotion; robot grippers; soft robotics.