Table 2.
Preferred artificial muscles for some typical microsystem applications
| Application | Critical requirements | Existing mechanism | Promising mechanism |
|---|---|---|---|
| Microswimmers | Soft structure, waterproof, untethered | Magnetic130 | Hydraulic, IPMC |
| Microsurgery | Fine motion, controlled force, quick response, safe | Magnetic170, pneumatic171, piezoelectric127 | IPMC |
| Micro flying robots | High frequency, high power/mass ratio, untethered | Piezoelectric119, DE16 | SMA |
| Micropumps | Large stroke, quick response, waterproof | Piezoelectric107, pneumatic172, IPMC173,174 | Magnetic |
| Soft grippers | Fine control of force and stroke | Pneumatic74, etc. | IPMC |
| Artificial insect exoskeletons | High power, large stroke, quick response | Piezoelectric119,120, IPMC98 | Pneumatic, DE |