EPFL
By rethinking the way thin metallic threads are woven into a flexible fabric, researchers have created a lightweight fabric capable of supporting more than 400 times its own weight.
Most current robotic systems rely on rigid components with comfort and social acceptance limited.
Robotic elements that apply forces when activated can provide mechanical assistance discrete to human muscles, but it is extremely difficult for these actuators to achieve sufficient strength and range of motion while remaining flexible enough to be integrated into clothing.
In a new study, a team of researchers from the Federal Polytechnic School of Lausanne (EPFL), Switzerland, developed textile actuators using fibers from a alloy with shape memory (SMA) intertwined in a periodic X pattern, called geometria X-Crossing.
When contracted by 50%, a 4.5-gram piece of fabric that integrates SMA fibers in the X-Crossing pattern can lift 1 kg of weight, the researchers explain in a EPFL paper.
The research, led by Huapeng Zhang e Herbert Sheawas presented in a recent publication in the magazine Science Advances.
The research addresses one of the main barriers in this sector: dependence on rigid components that reduce comfort and limit integration into everyday garments.
The goal was not just to increase power, but to do so while maintaining flexibility Compatible with daily usesomething essential for the social acceptance of these technologies.
Unlike traditional fabrics, where forces are dispersed, the X-Crossing geometry ensures that all tensions disappearsignificantly increasing mechanical performance.
“The orientation of the intersections is crucial so that the force generated is not canceled out”, explains Huapeng Zhang in the statement.
This configuration also allows for the fabric to stretch up to 160% its original length, making it easier to put on as if it were a common garment.
To validate its functionality outside the laboratory, the team tested the material on several prototypes, one of which consisted of a sleeve capable of assisting flexion of the elbow and lift weight progressively. Another prototype tested the fabric in body compression systems to medical and sporting uses.
One of the most relevant aspects of design is its energy efficiencyas the fabric can maintain applied force without electrical consumption continuous.
According to Herbert Shea, this advance opens the door to a new generation of clothing capable of help the human body discreetlyintegrating into daily life without ostentatious elements.
