3 red. This is effected with very small, highly innovative proportional valves from Festo based on piezo technology. It was only the compact design that made it possible to position the 72 proportional valves, together with the pressure sensors and the power electronics in the form of 8 valve modules, close to the muscles; this was a prerequisite for reliable muscle control. The tensile forces and the contraction of the individual muscles are measured by pressure and length sensors. A mecha-tronic unit developed by Festo then regulates the pressure distribution within the system, allowing movements that closely approach the action of human muscles in terms of kinematics, rapidity, force, but also refinement. Coordinating all these actuators is only possible using the most upto-date mechatronic systems and software available. Movements which we humans carry out subconsciously, or even in a reflex action, still require a great amount of effort using computer-supported control and regulation. Extending the sensory range of Airic’s_ arm, e.g. by means of cameras or tactile perception elements, would beconceivable inthefuture along withfurther developments in designing a back, hip, neck etc. With bionic projects, Festo is setting out to investigate new approaches to automation beyond the confines of its customary field of activity; its highly innovative industrial components are finding many areas of application. The complex automation modes of the more distant future can be modelled on phenomena in air and water as sources of inspiration - but above all on the human being itself. Airic’s_arm with artificial bones and muscles Piezo proportional valve technology
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