MUSCULAR CONTRACTION MIMICED BY MAGNETIC GELS

Abstract

The ability of magnetic-field-sensitive gels to undergo a quick controllable change of shape can be used to create an artificially designed system possessing sensor- and actuator functions internally in the gel itself. The peculiar magneto-elastic properties may be used to create a wide range of motion and to control the shape change and movement, that are smooth and gentle similar to that observed in muscle. Magnetic field sensitive gels provide attractive means of actuation as artificial muscle for biomechanics and biomimetic applications.