Sticky Actuator: Free-Form Planar Actuators for Animated Objects

• Main Authors: Niiyama, Ryuma (Author), Sun, Xu (Contributor), Yao, Lining (Contributor), Ishii, Hiroshi (Contributor), Kim, Sangbae (Contributor), Rus, Daniela L (Author)
• Other Authors: Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (Contributor), Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Department of Mechanical Engineering (Contributor), Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Media Laboratory (Contributor), Program in Media Arts and Sciences (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) (Contributor), Rus, Daniela L. (Contributor)
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), 2015-06-26T15:07:14Z.
• Subjects: Article
• Online Access: Get fulltext

 We propose soft planar actuators enhanced by free-form fabrication that are suitable for making everyday objects move. The actuator consists of one or more inflatable pouches with an adhesive back. We have developed a machine for the fabrication of free-from pouches; squares, circles and ribbons are all possible. The deformation of the pouches can provide linear, rotational, and more complicated motion corresponding to the pouch's geometry. We also provide a both manual and programmable control system. In a user study, we organized a hands-on workshop of actuated origami for children. The results show that the combination of the actuator and classic materials can enhance rapid prototyping of animated objects.