Artificial Muscles using HASEL Actuators

Current designs of prosthetic limbs are limited by the nearly exclusive use of DC motor technology. The use of soft actuators promises new design freedom to create prosthetic limbs which more closely mimic intact neuromuscular systems. This work evaluates the performance of a first-generation hydraulically amplified self-healing electrostatic (HASEL) soft actuator for use in a prosthetic hand.

Front view and side view of HASEL actuator
Diagram comparing voltage and length change of different sources of stress.