Achieving the full potential of robotics and enabling life-changing technologies like wearable exoskeletons, immersive haptic feedback, and dexterous robotics will require major advancements in actuator technologies. Actuators - the components that convert electricity into motion - have relied on the same electromagnetic principles for over 100 years. As a result, systems today are complex, expensive, heavy, and inefficient.

 

To overcome these challenges, Artimus Robotics is developing high performance artificial muscles called hydraulically amplified soft electrostatic or HASEL (hay-zuhl) actuators. HASEL actuators demonstrate several key characteristics that promise to enable a paradigm shift in robotics and motion:

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1. Direct Linear Motion. HASEL actuators generate direct linear actuation, avoiding the need for rotating/sliding parts.

2. Analog Motion and Wide Bandwidth. The electrohydraulic actuation principle enables highly controllable analog motion, and high-speed response (~ 10ms).

3. Energy Efficient & No Waste Heat. In contrast to electromagnetic actuation (e.g. motors), HASEL actuators consume almost zero energy while holding an actuation state, and consume 100x less power than a comparable DC motor while holding a position.

4. Silent. Direct conversion of electrical energy to mechanical energy without any rotating or sliding parts results in little-to-no audible noise during operation, avoiding environmental noise pollution.

5. Cost. Current robotic systems are cost prohibitive – in part due to the high cost of precision actuation components and complex design. HASEL materials cost < $0.01 per actuator at scale and are compatible with roll-to-roll fabrication, which will reduce costs and increase availability of robotic systems.

6. Customizable. The design space for HASEL actuators is large and designs are easily modified to tune electromechanical performance. The fabrication process is flexible, allowing for rapid prototyping of new designs that can be optimized for applications.

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Our multidisciplinary team has a passion for transformative technologies that create a positive impact on society. We work with companies, researchers, and government organizations around the world to develop cutting-edge actuator and robotic solutions that will change the future of motion.