Introduction
Technology has advanced, and numerous innovative machines have been developed with artificial intelligence such as soft robots. Fast linear actuators have been fitted in most soft robots with the aim of improving their movement from slow to rapid responses.
Soft robots and their actuators
Soft robots have been developed to fit the features of cost effectiveness, and they contain compliant as well as linear actuators to drive them. These soft robots vary with type from the DIY stretch-cable-and-link hands on instructables.com to the Dept. of Defense UGVs. The actuators in the soft robots highly determine their performance and efficiency as they enable the robots to have motion. The actuators also enable the soft robots to resist any movement in case any force is applied to them. Soft robots are used in various ways such as being fitted in the ribs of soldiers to make them stronger and fast. However, most soft robots are used for CoBoting where they assist in assembling items, sorting and lifting purposes.
Unlike the traditional robots that would likely pose harm to people especially during a collision, the soft robots can remain calm and controlled in uncontrolled environments. In fact, they do not compromise safety over their performance. To increase the controllability and complexity, fast linear actuators have been fitted into the soft robots. The actuators are also being developed with cost efficiency and improved performance making the soft robots’ responses fast.
However, much research is needed concerning risk assessment for all industrial motion control apps because there are various factors that could be hazardous during their operations. To improve the safety of working with soft robots, scientists have come up with sensors for both tactile and optical purposes. The safeness of any soft robots developed and the use of fast linear actuators is decided upon by the Robotic Industries Association.
