Mechano-sensitive actuator array
AssigneeAuckland Uniservices Limited
InventorsIain Alexander Anderson, Emilio Patricio Calius, Todd Alan Gisby, Benjamin Marc O'Brien, Shane Xie
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Abstract
An array of actuators is provided which is adapted for sequential actuation by way of mechano-sensitivity propagating actuation through the array, triggering each actuator upon deformation thereof caused by an adjacent actuator or a load in the form of a fluid or a solid object. Actuation is thus coordinated with minimal computational overhead. Also provided is an actuator suitable for use in such an array, a method of controlling an actuator, and a method of controlling an array of mechano-sensitive actuators.
Claims23
An array of actuators adapted for sequential actuation by way of mechano-sensitivity propagating actuation through the array.
A mechano-sensitive actuator adapted for use in an array of actuators comprising:
- a bending actuator for selectively manipulating a fluid or solid object;
- a sensor for sensing deformation of the bending actuator;
- and
- a trigger for actuating the bending actuator upon sensing deformation thereof, whereby the actuator is adapted to propagate actuation through the array by way of mechano-sensitivity.
(canceled)
A method of controlling an actuator in an array of actuators, the method comprising sensing deformation of the actuator using a self-sensing property of the actuator, and using the sensed information to actuate the actuator, thereby propagating actuation through the array by way of mechano-sensitivity.
23-26. (canceled)
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.