Thinner Than a Strand of Hair: A Silent Fiber Motor Designed for Soft Robots
Published on October 9, 14:34
Scientists at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) have introduced FiberMotor, an innovative ultra-quiet electric motor shaped as a slender fiber measuring just 1–3 mm in diameter. Unlike traditional motors, FiberMotor operates without permanent magnets or gears, making it ideal for integration into soft robotic systems and wearable textiles. The motor features two hollow fibers nested one inside the other, each wrapped with insulated copper electrodes slightly thicker than a human hair.
When electrical voltage is applied, electrostatic forces cause the fibers to align and slide against each other, converting electrical energy directly into linear motion without the need for mechanical transmissions. Lab tests demonstrated that a single FiberMotor can hold a stationary load of about 75 grams, while four combined motors successfully lifted a 46-gram chocolate bar and flexed a robotic finger.
Potential Applications of FiberMotor
The team incorporated FiberMotor into a prototype garment contoured to fit the knee. This advancement builds on previous EPFL developments, including a fiber-based pump designed for seamless textile integration. One researcher has launched a startup, Elecsyor, to commercialize FiberMotor technology. Current efforts focus on enhancing the motor’s performance and durability by developing thinner insulated electrodes and improving the motor’s materials.
FiberMotor holds promise for various fields, such as:
- soft exoskeletons that assist human movement,
- haptic feedback systems for virtual reality,
- lightweight prosthetic devices.
“FiberMotor delivers sufficient force for soft robotic applications while remaining flexible, silent, and capable of bidirectional movement.” — Herbert Shi
This breakthrough could significantly transform the design of soft robotics and interactive clothing, with applications spanning healthcare, rehabilitation, and everyday use. Given the growing interest in soft robotics and smart textiles, further development and commercialization of FiberMotor technology may lead to innovative products that improve the quality of life for people with disabilities and enhance immersive virtual reality experiences.
As advancements in soft robotics continue to emerge, researchers are exploring various innovative technologies, such as the recent development of a biohybrid robot powered by living muscle cells by MIT engineers. This approach complements the FiberMotor's capabilities, showcasing the potential for integrating biological elements into robotic systems for enhanced functionality.