Maseeh Summer Undergraduate Research Experience
Funding Source
Undergraduate Research and Mentoring Program (URMP)
Advisor
Alex Hunt
Document Type
Poster
Publication Date
2023
Abstract
Braided Pneumatic Actuators (BPAs) function as artificial muscles in biomimetic robotics, where real-time length feedback is essential for precise neural network control. While flexible strain gauge sensors offer potential for tracking muscle contraction, they are highly sensitive and produce noisy length readings. To address this challenge, we designed and fabricated a test rig featuring a linear potentiometer, linear bearings, and an extruded aluminum frame to minimize extraneous degrees of freedom and signal noise. Experimental actuation demonstrated that the rig provides high-precision displacement data, establishing a reliable benchmark for calibrating and characterizing future strain gauge sensor measurements across various muscle lengths and operating pressures.
Citation Details
Jubert, Rochelle, "Real-time Length Sensing of Artificial BPA Muscles for Use in Characterizing Strain Gauge Measurements" (2023). Maseeh Summer Undergraduate Research Experience. 57.
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