A Novel Actuator for Underwater Robots

Pneumatic muscles have been used for a number of years as actuators in robotic systems, usually for those that mimic human actions. They are most commonly used in systems designed to aid physically handicapped people. This feasibility study reports mechanical testing and modeling results for the Shadowtrade artificial muscle pneumatic actuator working in both air and underwater. The static and dynamic tension-contraction measurements were recorded through both the force and contraction relationship test and the dynamic response and time relationship test. A model of the properties of the muscle working in water was derived from the measurements of the tests that can be considered for its feasibility for use in undersea robotics.