Development of a Hybrid Element by using Sponge Core Soft Rubber Actuator

In this paper, we investigate a new type of hybrid element to realize a human-friendly support device. The element is a flexible actuator (called Sponge Core Soft Rubber Actuator) and its structure is a soft mechanism in which a sponge rubber is covered with silicone rubber. In addition to its actuation capability, the element can estimate external forces by making use of the relation between inner pressure and external force. Therefore, the element can be used as a hybrid element that has both actuator and force sensor functions. This paper discusses the hybrid element design, actuator characteristics, and force control and sensing abilities of the element. Experimental results are presented to illustrate the practical effectiveness of the proposed hybrid element.