Increasing the Force Exertion of a Soft Actuator Using Externally Attachable Inter-Chamber Plates

The application of soft actuators has become increasingly common in wearable devices. In this study, we investigated the force characteristics made entirely elastic material, when equipped with solid external chamber plates varying thickness that can be attached from outside. This study examines effect these on a fully silicone-based fifteen-chamber actuator without any non-stretchable internal components. parameters were determined consideration applications, such as rehabilitation devices and exoskeletons. observed differences behavior at various pressure levels plate thicknesses measured. Furthermore, externally inserted between chambers passive bending was examined. obtained results evaluated compared to determine how given affect operational performance actuator.