Electromagnetic muscles? Practical?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of using electromagnets as artificial muscles in robotics. Participants explore the feasibility and practicality of this idea, comparing it to existing technologies and materials used in robotics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Debate/contested, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes the idea of using tiny electromagnets to create a muscle-like actuator for robotics, questioning why this approach is not widely adopted.
  • Another participant notes that while similar ideas have been attempted, traditional solenoids and electric motors currently offer better power-to-weight ratios.
  • A different viewpoint suggests that the lack of adoption may be due to technological limitations, comparing it to the current inability to use warp drives.
  • Another participant argues that motor-driven ball screws are more efficient and versatile than electromagnet-based actuators, and references electroactive polymers as an alternative technology.
  • A later reply acknowledges the potential of electroactive polymers but emphasizes that further research is needed to understand their functionality.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the viability of electromagnet-based actuators compared to existing technologies. There is no consensus on the practicality of the proposed idea, and multiple competing views remain regarding the best approach for robotic actuators.

Contextual Notes

Some participants highlight the limitations of current technologies and the need for further research into alternatives like electroactive polymers, indicating that the discussion is still open-ended and unresolved.

kolleamm
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Here's my idea for a robotics actuator resembling a muscle. Lots of tiny electromagnets closely packed attracting each other to flex an artificial muscle.

It seems like such an obvious idea, why isn't anyone using it?
 
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kolleamm said:
Here's my idea for a robotics actuator resembling a muscle. Lots of tiny electromagnets closely packed attracting each other to flex an artificial muscle.

It seems like such an obvious idea, why isn't anyone using it?
Various ideas along these lines have been tried, some successfully. But it is hard to beat a simple solenoid for power to weight ratio. The circular form of a solenoid (an electric motor) is better still.

Keep thinking. Someone needs to invent new things. :oldeyes:
 
kolleamm said:
Here's my idea for a robotics actuator resembling a muscle. Lots of tiny electromagnets closely packed attracting each other to flex an artificial muscle.

It seems like such an obvious idea, why isn't anyone using it?

Well I hate to say this but probably for the same reason we are not using warp drives for spaceships. We have not developed the technology to do it. Sorry, I just thought your question was worded strangely.
 
Thank you for the help everyone. Last I checked electroactive polymers still require a lot of research into how they function, but I'm definitely interested in them.
 

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