Multi-link soft polymer micro-actuators and sensors

A new approach to the problem of soft micro-actuators and micro-sensors is proposed, based on the design of new multi-link polymer-ion composite smart mechanisms. The programme of research will develop and study novel soft micro-actuators and micro-sensors that can articulate into complex shapes and can detect complex deformations, features that have previously been impractical. This research will be carried out using state-of-the-art polymer bending actuator materials. Structures and mechanisms in nature, such as beating cilia and soft swimming organisms, will provide the inspiration for this research. Techniques for the design, construction, modelling and control of these new actuator/sensors will also be developed. Applications of this research include fluid control and motivating mechanisms for a lab-on-a-chip, soft catheters and endoscopes, and mechanisms for soft micro-robotics.Strong input will come from collaborations with the Bio-mimetic Control Research Center in RIKEN, the Japanese Institute for Physical and Chemical Research and the Japanese National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, world leaders in the design and development of new polymer-ion sensor/actuators.