Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Hanisah Bakeri, Khairunnisa Hasikin, Nasrul Anuar Abd Razak, Rizal Mohd Razman, Abd Alghani Khamis, Muhammad Ammar Annuha, Abbad Tajuddin, Darween Reza
Summary: This study focuses on the design, fabrication, and evaluation of soft pneumatic actuators (SPA) for lower-limb rehabilitation compression therapy. The research aims to explore the most effective design and material selection for dynamic pressure delivery in SPAs. The results show promising behavior of the developed SPA chamber using low-cost and biocompatible food-grade silicone.
APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL
(2023)
Article
Instruments & Instrumentation
Yifu Lu, Liyong Tong
Summary: This study develops a novel design of a bending-type soft pneumatic actuator and validates it through optimization and finite element analysis. The optimized design achieves a 19.5% improvement in bending angle and is verified via prototyping, pressure testing, and grasping experiments.
SMART MATERIALS AND STRUCTURES
(2022)
Article
Robotics
Ajinkya Bhat, Shobhit Sandeep Jaipurkar, Li Ting Low, Raye Chen-Hua Yeow
Summary: The development of soft robotics has led to the exploration of novel techniques for manufacturing soft actuators, which are advantageous for wearable assistive robotics. This article presents a composite design scheme using a silicone polymer-based bladder and a reconfigurable fabric skin, which overcomes the limitations of individual materials and allows for versatile and customizable designs. The advantages of this fabric-skin-based concept include modularity, reconfigurability, and the ability to achieve complex motions.
Article
Engineering, Mechanical
Duraikannan Maruthavanan, Arthur Seibel, Josef Schlattmann
Summary: This study proposes a fully coupled fluid-structure interaction model for simulating a soft pneumatic actuator. It is found that traditional finite element modelling cannot accurately capture the physical process of fluid flow inside the actuator. Therefore, conducting a two-way FSI analysis is crucial for accurately modeling the physical behavior of SPAs.
Article
Engineering, Electrical & Electronic
David Gonzalez, Jose Garcia, Richard M. Voyles, Robert A. Nawrocki, Brittany Newell
Summary: This study presents a novel design of a fully 3D printed soft pneumatic actuator and characterizes its performance. The theoretical model is able to predict the response of the printed actuator accurately, and the design meets practical requirements.
SENSORS AND ACTUATORS A-PHYSICAL
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Mechanical
Xinbo Chen, Shuai Zhang, Kaibin Cao, Chunjie Wei, Wumian Zhao, Jiantao Yao
Summary: A novel soft wearable upper limb rehabilitation robot with reinforced soft pneumatic actuators (RSPAs) has been developed. This robot allows for rehabilitation training that enhances flexibility, comfort, and safety.
CHINESE JOURNAL OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Electrical & Electronic
Eigo Kitamura, Hiroyuki Nabae, Gen Endo, Koichi Suzumori
Summary: This study proposes a method for using self-excited vibrations to achieve pneumatic soft actuators, which can increase the degree of freedom of the actuator while avoiding the use of valves. By using simple and flexible materials to manufacture the valve, the design of this soft actuator is made possible.
SENSORS AND ACTUATORS A-PHYSICAL
(2021)
Article
Robotics
Xing Ye, Shidong Zhu, Xiang Qian, Min Zhang, Xiaohao Wang
Summary: This article presents a soft robotic structure based on V-shape pneumatic torsional actuators, discussing its potential for miniature robotic automation in laboratory or industrial settings.
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Mostafa Orban, Kai Guo, Hongbo Yang, Xuhui Hu, Mohamed Hassaan, Mahmoud Elsamanty
Summary: A soft pneumatic muscle was developed to replicate intricate ankle motions, focusing on rotational movement along the x-axis. The design allowed controlled expansion and motion through precise geometrical parameters and air pressure regulation. The experimental results demonstrated the adaptability and effectiveness of the soft muscle design, providing a foundation for advancements in ankle rehabilitation and soft robotics.
FRONTIERS IN BIOENGINEERING AND BIOTECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Electrical & Electronic
So Shimooka, Miku Kawanaka, Akio Gofuku
Summary: This paper presents a soft rotary actuator capable of rotating even when its shaft is bent. The actuator consists of three Extension-type Flexible Pneumatic Actuators (EFPA), flexible plates for geometric restraint, and a polyurethane tube as a shaft. By restraining the EFPA to a helical shape, the actuator can rotate when pressure is applied to extend the EFPAs. Experimental results confirm that the actuator can rotate with a maximum angle of approximately 400 degrees and torque of 0.5 Nm, even with a bent shaft. An analytical model is proposed to predict the rotation angle based on input pressure, taking into account EFPA friction and restraining effects.
SENSORS AND ACTUATORS A-PHYSICAL
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Mechanical
Guoliang Zhong, Weiqiang Dou, Xuechao Zhang, Hongdong Yi
Summary: Soft pneumatic actuators with pleated structures have advantages in low input pressure, high bending speed, and large-amplitude motion, but modeling their behavior is challenging due to discontinuity of pleated structures and material nonlinearity. This paper proposes an analytical model based on the constant volume principle and Neo-Hookean hyperelasticity theory to predict the bending angle and tip contact force of the soft actuator, which is validated through physical experiments and FEM simulations. The experimental study demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed analytical model in predicting the bending angle and tip contact force of the soft actuators.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MECHANICAL SCIENCES
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Multidisciplinary
Ming Ma, Quansheng Jiang, Haochen Wang, Yehu Shen, Fengyu Xu
Summary: This article introduces a novel bionic pneumatic gripper inspired by spider legs, which has the advantages of simplicity and adaptability in structure. The gripping power is usually limited due to the low modulus of soft materials, so a design with symmetrical fingers, pneumatic actuated joints, rigid links, and pneumatic soft pads is proposed to increase the gripping force. The compressibility and elasticity of the soft joint and pad enable the gripper to handle fragile objects without damage. The prototype is manufactured and evaluated for gripping force, flexibility, and adaptability with promising results.
JOURNAL OF BIONIC ENGINEERING
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Mechanical
Wei Xiao, Dean Hu, Hang Zhou, Xuenan Du
Summary: Researchers have developed a self-sensing intelligent soft pneumatic actuator (SISPA) by integrating a sensing layer made of silicone rubber/NdFeB composite twined with a varnished wire. Experimental results show that the induced voltage increases with the increasing mass fraction of magnetic powders, turns of the varnished wire, and thicknesses and widths of the composite. The bending deformation and its relationship with output voltage are investigated, and an intelligent bionic hand is developed using the SISPA.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MECHANICAL SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Polymer Science
Jin Guo, Jin Huat Low, Vinaya Rajagopal Iyer, Peiyan Wong, Chee Bing Ong, Wen Lin Loh, Chen Hua Yeow
Summary: Soft pneumatic elastomeric gripper may reduce nerve damage caused by surgical manipulation. Experimental observations show that compared to conventional haemostats, the rats in the soft gripper group exhibit minimal nerve tissue changes and better walking function after recovery.
Article
Engineering, Mechanical
Nianfeng Wang, Bicheng Chen, Xiandong Ge, Xianmin Zhang, Wenbin Wang
Summary: This research developed crawling robots using soft pneumatic actuators and achieved good agreement between experiments and numerical models.
FRONTIERS OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Industrial
Yi-Ning Fung, Hau-Ling Chan, Tsan-Ming Choi, Rong Liu
Summary: This paper examines the product development process in the fashion industry and how to achieve sustainability. By categorizing the essential steps and different types of product development processes in fashion, it reveals the key factors for achieving sustainable fashion.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PRODUCTION ECONOMICS
(2021)
Article
Materials Science, Textiles
Ki Wai Fong, Si Qing Li, Rong Liu
Summary: Inlay yarn and laid-in structures are important technical knitting elements in industrial, medical, and wearable electronics fields. A new geometric model and numerical analysis approach presented in this study accurately characterize spatial configurations and material consumption for laid-in weft-knitted fabrics. Results show the newly developed model is applicable for practical use in predicting material consumption and analyzing structural properties of laid-in weft-knitted fabrics.
TEXTILE RESEARCH JOURNAL
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Mechanical
Dong Guan, Li Jing, Xue Han, Lihui Wang, Junjie Gong
Summary: This paper theoretically and numerically studies the dynamic contact characteristics between a piston system and a cylinder block in a spherical pump. It establishes a theoretical contact model based on structural and operational properties to quantify the maximum contact force. The effects of different structural parameters and working pressures on the contact force are analyzed, while the relationship between friction coefficient and rotation speed is presented. The static and dynamic contact characteristics of the piston are discussed to provide practical suggestions for improving wear resistance performance and durability of the spherical pump.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE INSTITUTION OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERS PART J-JOURNAL OF ENGINEERING TRIBOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Dong Guan, Nan Yang, Jerry Lai, Ming-Fung Francis Siu, Xingjian Jing, Chi-Keung Lau
Summary: This article discusses the use of heavy-duty machines for pile construction in Hong Kong, as well as the invention of a robot excavator by the authors to overcome the challenges of constructing large diameter piles on sloping ground. Through simulating kinematic characteristics and establishing constraint models, the research provides a foundation for designing and controlling robotic excavators for pile construction in practice.
AUTOMATION IN CONSTRUCTION
(2021)
Article
Materials Science, Textiles
Zidan Gong, Rong Liu, Winnie Yu, Thomas Kwok-Shing Wong, Yuanqi Guo
Summary: This study aimed to design and develop a new acu-magnetic therapeutic knee brace to relieve symptomatic KOA, and evaluate its effectiveness on knee function via a randomized controlled trial (RCT). Results showed that the experimental acu-magnetic KB significantly relieved knee stiffness and pain, and improved physical function, balance ability, and knee range of motion.
JOURNAL OF THE TEXTILE INSTITUTE
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Dong Guan, Xiaojie Cong, Jing Li, Hui Shen, Chun Zhang, Junjie Gong
Summary: This paper focuses on factors that affect the output performance of SS-TENG and establishes a model to quantitatively describe the output. The optimized fill rate is determined to be 0.83, providing a significant reference for the optimization of blue energy harvesting TENG.
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Dong Guan, Zhuxin Zhou, Chun Zhang
Summary: This paper introduces a new hydraulic concept of a spherical pump, with detailed investigations on the hydrostatic bearing characteristics and sensitivities to various parameters. The findings provide a fundamental basis for designing efficient spherical pumps and can also be applied to improving other hydraulic bearing systems.
Article
Engineering, Mechanical
Dong Guan, Xiaojie Cong, Jing Li, Zhuang Niu
Summary: This paper investigates the working characteristics of a spherical water pump through experimental tests and theoretical modeling. The theoretical models accurately establish the displacement and real-time delivered flow based on the working principles of the pump, and the effects of structural parameters on flow characteristics are examined. A test rig is used to validate the working characteristics of the pump, including leakage characteristics, flow characteristics, power consumption, and noise radiation. The results indicate that the proposed models effectively characterize the working properties of the spherical water pump and demonstrate reasonable performance in power consumption and noise radiation characteristics. These studies provide fundamental principles for designing high-performance spherical water pumps.
FLOW MEASUREMENT AND INSTRUMENTATION
(2022)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Chongyang Ye, Rong Liu, Xinbo Wu, Fuyou Liang, Michael T. C. Ying, Jingyun Lv
Summary: This study developed a new approach to determine the three-dimensional mechanical properties of ECS fabrics using orthotropic theoretical analysis, analytical model development, FEM, and experimental testing. The results showed that using the three-dimensional material properties reduced the deviation in pressure predictions and improved the accuracy of FEM simulations, facilitating the design of elastic compression materials.
MATERIALS & DESIGN
(2022)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Jing Li, Peiben Wang, Yuewen Gao, Dong Guan, Shengquan Li
Summary: This paper introduces a novel nonlinear dynamics model for predicting and evaluating the working characteristics and performance of an energy harvesting shock absorber. The accuracy and applicability of the theoretical model are verified through practical testing, and the performance of the absorber under different vibration conditions is discussed.
Article
Thermodynamics
Dong Guan, Biyu Pan, Zhen Chen, Jing Li, Hui Shen, Huan Pang
Summary: A quantitative model is proposed in this study to characterize the pressure distribution on bipolar plates. A theoretical model is established based on finite element modeling (FEM) and measurement, and flexible pressure sensors are used for testing. Furthermore, a nacre-inspired optimization approach is applied to improve the uneven pressure distributions. Results show that the optimized design can significantly improve the uneven clamping load and provide an effective approach for designing durable PEMFC stacks.
Article
Acoustics
Dong Guan, Xiaojie Cong, Jing Li, Peiben Wang, Zhengwei Yang, Xingjian Jing
Summary: This paper designs a mechatronic shock absorber based on a ball screw pair, which can produce a large damping force under the same working conditions. The dynamic model of the mechatronic shock absorber is established, and the damping force is divided into inertial, electromagnetic, and mechanical damping forces. The global sensitivity analysis method, Sobol based on variance, is used to analyze the sensitivity of various parameters. The results show that the load resistance has the greatest impact on the equivalent damping coefficient. The optimal range of load resistance under different structural parameters is proposed for vehicle ride comfort. Experimental tests are conducted to validate the dynamic model. This work provides a theoretical basis for guiding the future design of mechatronic shock absorbers.
JOURNAL OF SOUND AND VIBRATION
(2022)
Article
Acoustics
Feng Liang, Yao Chen, Dong Guan, Jing Li
Summary: This paper proposes a novel type of dynamic metamaterial structure based on a spinning locally resonant pipe and investigates its coupled band gap (BG) characteristics. The study reveals that this metamaterial structure plays a significant role in the formation of low-frequency BGs, which is beneficial for vibration suppression in large-size engineering structures. Additionally, the paper shows that original BGs of non-spin structures separate into different pseudo BGs during precession motions, while the true BGs are located in their coincident areas.
JOURNAL OF SOUND AND VIBRATION
(2022)
Article
Thermodynamics
Pengcheng Xu, Hui Shen, Jing Li, Chun Zhang, Dong Guan
Summary: In this article, a power bonding diagram model is proposed for triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs), which can handle multiple forms of energy and reveal the interaction and energy conversion relationships among the components of the TENG system. Through parameter simulation analysis, it is found that different changes in parameters during the contact-separation motion of the TENG will have different impacts on its output performance. The parameter analysis of the power bonding diagram model of the TENG can inspire researchers to improve the output electric energy from both theoretical and practical aspects.
Review
Engineering, Biomedical
Abdul Wasy Zia, Rong Liu, Xinbo Wu
Summary: This study reviews the latest advancements in structural design and mechanical behaviors of composite vascular grafts. The research critically analyzes the impact of different designs, materials, and manufacturing techniques on the mechanical properties of composite vascular grafts. It suggests that utilizing hybrid structures with multiple layers and materials can achieve the desired flexibility and function.
BIO-DESIGN AND MANUFACTURING
(2022)