| 摘要 |
A digital linear actuator includes a plurality of digital actuator cells each connected to the next in sequential fashion. Each of the digital actuator cells contracts or expands a predetermined amount along an expansion/contraction axis when it is actuated by a corresponding digital signal. Each digital actuator cell includes an inner portion containing a medium which expands or contracts in response to a digital signal. The inner portion is disposed within an outer portion that contracts in the direction of the axis in response to expansion of the inner portion, and expands in the direction of the axis in response to contraction of the inner portion. The device is useful in simulating the behavior of a muscle in a prosthetic device. Several embodiments of the invention are disclosed in which an arm can be extended to and retracted from a snake-like configuration. Another embodiment of the invention is disclosed which effectively simulates a shoulder and arm mechanism.
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