Leaky Muscle
From Merlin Systems Wiki
The Merlin Flow-Controlled Muscle' (or 'leaky' muscle) is the simplest possible air muscle actuator.
The muscle combines the MAV Proportional Air Valve with Merlin's air muscle technology, and a controllable outlet tap: The outlet tap produces internal pressure from the airflow, so the muscle produces a force or movement output related to the drive current.
The main features of the leaky muscle are -
- high power-to-weight ratio
- proportional operation
- flexible, non-rigid installation
- force compliant output
- airflow controlled
- electrically operated
- simplest possible control
The simplest use of the muscle is to operate an intermittent tension-operated movement. In this case, the muscle can be used with high drive level to provide fast operation and a large operating force (10s of KgF).
Alternatively, the leaky muscle can produce a proportional output movement or force. In this case there is a tradeoff between response rates and air usage, as the muscle requires a sustained airflow to produce a contraction.
Leaky muscles are often used in large groups. To control multiple leaky muscles, see the MDB Muscle Controller.
Example project - see Wolfsburg Museum- Phaeno Project
For a more sophisticated actuator, see Dual Valve Muscle. By incorporating two control valves, this can hold a given position without constant air usage. In practice, this also means faster and more controllable operation.
