A supertough electro-tendon based on spider silk composites

Liang Pan, Fan Wang, Yuan Cheng, Wan Ru Leow, Yong-Wei Zhang, Ming Wang, Pingqiang Cai, Baohua Ji, Dechang Li () and Xiaodong Chen ()
Additional contact information
Liang Pan: Nanyang Technological University
Fan Wang: Beijing Institute of Technology
Yuan Cheng: Agency for Science Technology and Research (A*STAR)
Wan Ru Leow: Nanyang Technological University
Yong-Wei Zhang: Agency for Science Technology and Research (A*STAR)
Ming Wang: Nanyang Technological University
Pingqiang Cai: Nanyang Technological University
Baohua Ji: Zhejiang University
Dechang Li: Zhejiang University
Xiaodong Chen: Nanyang Technological University

Nature Communications, 2020, vol. 11, issue 1, 1-9

Abstract: Abstract Compared to transmission systems based on shafts and gears, tendon-driven systems offer a simpler and more dexterous way to transmit actuation force in robotic hands. However, current tendon fibers have low toughness and suffer from large friction, limiting the further development of tendon-driven robotic hands. Here, we report a super tough electro-tendon based on spider silk which has a toughness of 420 MJ/m3 and conductivity of 1,077 S/cm. The electro-tendon, mechanically toughened by single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and electrically enhanced by PEDOT:PSS, can withstand more than 40,000 bending-stretching cycles without changes in conductivity. Because the electro-tendon can simultaneously transmit signals and force from the sensing and actuating systems, we use it to replace the single functional tendon in humanoid robotic hand to perform grasping functions without additional wiring and circuit components. This material is expected to pave the way for the development of robots and various applications in advanced manufacturing and engineering.

Date: 2020
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-14988-5

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