Patent ID: 8395300
Filing Date: 2013-03-12
Classification: B25J,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A shape changing manipulator comprising: a plurality of elements, wherein each of said plurality of elements comprises a bending ionic electroactive polymer material with a conducting surface layer, each of said plurality of elements mechanically connected with at least one another element of said plurality of elements and being electrically connectable to a power source for controllably powering each of said plurality of elements for changing its shape, wherein at least one of said plurality of elements is adapted to operate as a touch and force sensor, wherein said plurality of elements are combined together to form a rim, wherein each element of said plurality of elements comprises a first section, said first sections are mechanically connected with each other, and each element of said plurality of elements comprises a second section with electrodes for receiving an activating voltage from the power source, wherein each of said second section being capable of moving toward to and away from a center of said rim, thereby changing a shape of said rim when voltage is applied to said electrodes of said plurality of elements individually or in groups according to predetermined algorithm, causing said manipulator to move in a desired manner.