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3D Printed Thermally-Activated Flexible Wax Actuators

Detailed Technology Description
This versatile method, based on 3D printing,allows for fast prototyping of thermally actuated flexible wax actuators.
Others

Publications
*Abstract

Wax actuators convert thermal energy to mechanicalenergy as a wax substance within the actuator expands.  In general they are used for applicationsrequiring highly reliable, short stroke and high power density movements.  We present a method for producing 3D printedwax actuators.

 

Our process(shown above) produces a sealed wax-filled cell, composed of a semi-rigidchamber and covered by a flexible elastomeric membrane. This device concentratesand focuses the force of the expanding wax in the desired direction.

 

By using 3D printing, as opposed to traditionalmanufacturing processes, the time required to make a prototype can bedrastically reduced.  This allows for rapidtesting and iteration through potential designs-- without incurring the toolingcosts associated with traditional manufacturing processes. While 3D printedactuators have been an area of active development, to-date only weak polymeractuators, small displacement piezoelectric actuators, and pneumatic actuatorshave been produced with 3D printers. 

 

PotentialApplications

  • Rapid prototypingof wax actuators
  • Soft robotics
  • Automation
  • Microfluidics
  • Soft electronics
  • Valves and O-ringsfor aerospace applications
  • Temperatureregulation systems for greenhouses, appliances, HVAC and automotiveapplications
  • Highly reliableshort stroke and high power density applications

 

Advantages

  • Metal-free designusable in environments with high magnetic fields such as MRIs
  • Allows a user totest a design for a new actuator at a significantly lower cost
  • Soft structure canbe integrated into soft-robotics
  • 3D printing allowsfor many diverse material combinations and geometries

Keywords: Physical Sciences, Chemicals, Oleochemicals & Petrochemicals, Polymers, Synthetic Methods, Optimization,  Electrical Engineering, Actuators, Robotics,  Energy, Alternative & Green Energy,  Materials, Composites, Nanotechnology, Nanoapplications, Nanocomposites, Materials Fabrication, Aerospace, Engineering, Materials Science, Wax Actuator, Wax Motor, Thermal Linear Actuator, Thermostat
*Licensing
Carolyn A. Theodorecat42@cornell.edu607 254 4514
Country/Region
USA

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