| Publication No: | IN202211053617 [India] | Application No: | 202211053617 |
| Title: | Low-capacity, ultra-light pneumatic muscle actuator (lupma) for wearable bio-robotic applications | ||
| Publication Date: | 22-03-2024 | File Date: | 19-09-2022 |
| Inventor(s): | Amit Kumar; Abhijit Mahapatra; Avik Chatterjee | ||
| IPC Classification: | F15B15/10, A61B5/00, B25J9/14, A61F2/74, C12M1/12 | ||
| Abstract: | The present invention provides a Low-capacity, Ultra-light Pneumatic Muscle Actuator (LUPMA) of McKibben type for wearable bio-robotic Application. The LUPMA comprises of three major components, namely, an inner inflatable silicone tube, a double helical braided sleeve of inextensible nylon fibers, and specially designed end sealing connectors at both ends. The LUPMA undergoes contraction along its length when it is fed with compressed air and thereby it applies a pulling force on the load connected to either end. The specially designed end sealing connectors are made of 3D printed rigid components and are substantially lighter in weight and lower in cost compared to the commercially available counterparts. The end connectors house releasable screw mechanism for firmly holding the silicone tube and braided sleeve together while providing compressed air sealing, mechanical load connection point and air supply passage. The pneumatic muscle end connectors can also be reused to make muscles of different lengths as per requirement with the change in stroke for different Applications. The muscle is able to operate up to the pressure of 5 bar. | ||