SOFT ACTUATORS SERVE HARD APPLICATIONS Simple but versatile inflatable bladders can solve a variety of design challenges

摘要

Many designers overlook the potential of inflatable bladders for actuation applications, but thanks to improved elastomeric materials and new cross-sections, the niche for bladder-type actuators is expanding. Today's inflatable actuators deliver longer strokes - up to 2.5 in. - and many can exert uniform force over their entire stroke. For the right application - typically single-acting, repetitive, short strokes, where positional precision is not required -other advantages include: 1) generation of force over a large area 2) flexibility to fit in tight locations (It's not unusual to be able to squeeze a bladder into a space where no cylinder or stepper motor would fit.) 3) contamination resistance 4) simplicity 5) light weight 6) no metal parts, thus no corrosion 7) modest cost 8) the economy and reliability of pneumatics, and 9) minimal maintenance. Those are some of the reasons why inflatable bladder-type actuators are being found as workholders, parts positioners, expanding mandrels, and clamps, as well as soft brakes on belt conveyors.