New Portable Engine Enhances Soft Robotic Muscles for Assistive Devices

Researchers develop a lightweight, untethered fluidic engine capable of generating significant force for improved mobility aids.

The engine can generate up to 580 Newtons of force without an external power source.
It uses a battery-powered high-torque motor to pump oil, mimicking muscle flexing and relaxing.
The design addresses limitations of previous fluid engines that required large external compressors.
Proof-of-concept tests show the engine's high efficiency and low weight.
The research was supported by the National Science Foundation and other institutions.