Foam actuators

Abstract

Foam-based pneumatic actuators can be formed in a state of mechanical compression prior to actuation. An actuator includes an elastomeric foam; a coating disposed on the elastomeric foam; and an elastomer seal disposed on the coating. The coating constrains the elastomeric foam and can be configured to break or fracture when the elastomeric foam inflates. The elastomer seal can be configured to be impermeable to the actuating fluid. Such a foam actuator can be used in a cardiac compression device. These foam actuators possess increased actuation deformation and an actuation exerted force for a given inflation pressure. A large deformation can be provided from materials having low ultimate strains.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.