Soft robotics is a new and young field of robots that uses (mostly) soft and compliant materials as opposed to rigid and hard materials. Most soft robots are composed of multiple soft robotic actuator, most of which are actuated by air. This project is an actuator that extends when inflated. The Instructables guide can be found here: http://www.instructables.com/id/Extending-Soft-Actuator/Videos:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=72DSDvMXxP8https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=348WSyRwkCw
Technical
Materials:
Smooth-On Ecoflex 00-30
GE Silicone
A large zip-tie
Small piece of 1/8" tubing
Tools:
3D printer
A large vice
Spoon
Cup
Small scoop
Small flathead screwdriver
Large flathead screwdriver
Syringes or electric pump that can connect to the 1/8" tubing (this is for using the actuator)