Multi‐Degree‐of‐Freedom Robots Powered and Controlled by Microwaves. Issue 29 (19th August 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Li, Yongze; Wu, Jianyu; Yang, Peizhuo; Song, Lizhong; Wang, Jun; Xing, Zhiguang; Zhao, Jianwen
• Is Part Of: Advanced science. Volume 9:Issue 29(2022)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2022-08-19
• Subjects: microwave directional heating -- microwave‐driven robot -- passive robot -- SMA actuator; Science -- Periodicals; 505
• DOI: 10.1002/advs.202203305
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2198-3844

Abstract

Abstract: Microwaves have become a promising wireless driving strategy due to the advantages of transmissivity through obstacles, fast energy targeting, and selective heating. Although there are some studies on microwave powered artificial muscles based on different structures, the lack of studies on microwave control has limited the development of microwave‐driven (MWD) robots. Here, a far‐field MWD parallel robot controlled by adjusting energy distribution via changing the polarization direction of microwaves at 2.47 GHz is first reported. The parallel robot is based on three double‐layer bending actuators composed of wave‐absorbing sheets and bimetallic sheets, and it can implement circular and triangular path at a distance of 0.4 m under 700 W transmitting power. The thermal response rate of the actuator under microwaves is studied, and it is found that the electric‐field components can provide a faster thermal response at the optimal length of actuator than magnetic‐field components. The work of the parallel robot is demonstrated in an enclosed space composed of microwave‐transparent materials. This developed method demonstrates the multi‐degree‐of‐freedom controllability for robots using microwaves and offers potential solutions for some engineering cases, such as pipeline/reactors inspection and medical applications. Abstract : In addition to providing energy, wireless‐driving systems using microwaves can potentially offer unique control information based on the polarization direction and frequency. Here, a far‐field microwave‐driven parallel robot controlled by adjusting energy distribution via changing the polarization direction of microwaves at 2.47 GHz is first reported. The robot can realize circular path and triangular path motions.