Development of a light-driven linear-actuator using photochromic materials

2022 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 20K04238
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (C)
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Section: 一般
• Review Section: Basic Section 18040:Machine elements and tribology-related
• Research Institution: Kumamoto University
• Principal Investigator: Omata Seiji 熊本大学, 大学院先端科学研究部(工), 助教 (60624814)
• Project Period (FY): 2020-04-01 – 2023-03-31
• Keywords: ソフトメカニクス / ソフトアクチュエータ / ソフトロボティクス / フォトクロミックポリマー / 非接触駆動

Outline of Final Research Achievements

In soft robotics, which has attracted much attention in recent years, the purpose of this study was to develop a non-contact linear actuator using optical stimulation. By increasing the efficiency of light absorption and bundling flexible fibers, we will develop a driving system that enables high-speed displacement in a single axis direction. To achieve this, we decided to create nano-fibers by connecting light-driven molecules into a string of beads to enable linear motion.
We selected monomers with photochromic molecular structures, prepared an environment for synthesizing polymer materials containing photochromic molecules, and made it possible to adjust the materials. We succeeded in observing the driving phenomenon of the photo-driven actuator in real time by irradiating ultraviolet light.

Free Research Field

ソフトメカニクス

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

これまでのフォトクロミックポリマーの開発により、光の波長のみに依存する駆動様式の可能性が示唆され始めている。これは、駆動エネルギーを非接触的に実現するものである。本研究では、この駆動様式の機械工学への応用を試みる全く新しい試みの一環である。その為、機械・ロボット分野の新しい学術領域を創生する事が出来るものと考えている。