Xiang, YujiangQuarnstrom, JoelWentz Research Scholars2021-09-242021-09-242021-04Quarnstrom, J., & Xiang, Y. (2021, April). A novel flexible mechanical actuator serving as an artificial muscle. Session presented at the Oklahoma State University Wentz Research Scholars Symposium, Stillwater, OK.https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14446/330969Most linear actuators (screw, pneumatic, hydraulic, etc.) consist of a stationary housing and a moveable (piston) extension component. In order to keep the piston constrained laterally, and due to other mechanical limitations, the pistons for these systems are incapable of translating more than the distance of the stationary housing. The relative translation distance is limited for those traditional linear actuators. In this study, a novel cable-driven linear actuator is designed that can provide both axial tension and compression forces, and be capable of extending to a final length that is over twice its original length. It uses a set of wires arranged in a helix configuration that extends or contracts axially due to a torsional rotation. These wires are constrained from shifting laterally and from buckling when under compression. Prototypes are constructed using mostly 3D printed components, and the relationship between the input torque, output force, and output contraction distance are determined experimentally.application/pdfIn the Oklahoma State University Library's institutional repository this paper is made available through the open access principles and the terms of agreement/consent between the author(s) and the publisher. The permission policy on the use, reproduction or distribution of the article falls under fair use for educational, scholarship, and research purposes. Contact Digital Resources and Discovery Services at lib-dls@okstate.edu or 405-744-9161 for further information.Presentationlinear actuatorrelative displacementhelical wire actuatorartificial muscle