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Muscle-inspired elasto-electromagnetic mechanism in autonomous insect robots

Author

Listed:
  • Changyu Xu

    (Westlake University
    Westlake Institute for Advanced Study)

  • Yajun Cao

    (Westlake University
    Westlake Institute for Advanced Study)

  • Jingyang Zhao

    (Westlake University)

  • Yujia Cao

    (Westlake University)

  • Yi Huang

    (Westlake Interactive Robot Technology (Hangzhou) Co. Ltd)

  • Yangyi Lin

    (Westlake University)

  • Dong Wang

    (Sichuan University)

  • Zhuang Zhang

    (Westlake University
    Westlake Institute for Advanced Study)

  • Hanqing Jiang

    (Westlake University
    Westlake Institute for Advanced Study
    Westlake University)

Abstract

In nature, the dynamic contraction and relaxation of muscle in animals provide the essential force and deformation necessary for diverse locomotion, enabling them to navigate and overcome environmental challenges. However, most autonomous robotic systems still rely on conventional rigid motors, lacking the adaptability and resilience of muscle-like actuators. Existing artificial muscles, while promising for soft actuation, often require demanding operational conditions that hinder their use in onboard-powered small autonomous systems. In this work, we present the Elasto-Electromagnetic mechanism, an electromagnetic actuation strategy tailored for soft robotics. By structuring simple elastomeric materials, this mechanism mimics key features of biological muscle contraction and optimizes actuation properties. It achieves significant output force (~210 N/kg), large contraction ratio (up to 60%), rapid response (60 Hz), and low-voltage operation (

Suggested Citation

  • Changyu Xu & Yajun Cao & Jingyang Zhao & Yujia Cao & Yi Huang & Yangyi Lin & Dong Wang & Zhuang Zhang & Hanqing Jiang, 2025. "Muscle-inspired elasto-electromagnetic mechanism in autonomous insect robots," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 16(1), pages 1-15, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:16:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-025-62182-2
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-62182-2
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