A novel artificial muscle system with large reversible deformation, continuously adjustable stiffness and dynamic self-adaptation

Intelligent artificial muscle systems that adapt to changing environments and load demands can be used in a wide range of smart soft robots, muscle function restoration, and human–machine interactions. However, it is still a challenge for artificial muscle fiber to satisfy large reversible deformations and high load capacity. Here, a bioinspired novel artificial muscle system based on GLC fiber (graphene@liquid crystal elastomer/carbonyl iron particle) is designed that allows for large reversible deformation, continuously adjustable stiffness and dynamic self-adaption. The system exhibits multidimensional modulus enhancement (axial tension, axial compression and shear modulus) under an adjustable magnetic field, which significantly enhances the stability and load capacity (2000 times its own weight). While the system also demonstrated large deformation (41.5 %) and high reliability (1000 cycles) without magnetic field. Furthermore, a self-sensing mechanism based on surface-warped graphene is established, and the dynamic self-adaptive ability of perception-judge-drive of artificial muscle system is realized. Finally, as a proof-of-concept, the self-adaptive robotic arm and self-adaptive linear motor are prepared to exhibit the stability and accuracy of artificial muscle system.