Hellenic Mediterranean University contributes a new optimization framework for energy-efficient soft fabric pneumatic actuators

ARISE is pleased to announce a forthcoming scientific publication by project partner Hellenic Mediterranean University (HMU), titled “Design Optimization of Soft Fabric Pneumatic Actuators”, currently in the proof stage with the journal Advanced Intelligent Systems.

The study presents a structured and generalizable optimization framework for soft fabric pneumatic actuators, a rapidly growing class of components in soft robotics. These actuators are lightweight, compliant, and capable of producing complex motions, making them highly relevant for next-generation robotic systems that require safe, adaptable, and efficient interaction with their environment.

The work focuses on the design optimization of two representative actuator types: elongating actuators and bending actuators. By combining validated finite element models, design-of-experiments methods, surrogate modelling, and multi-objective optimization, the proposed framework identifies actuator geometries and operating parameters that can meet demanding force, displacement, torque, and rotation requirements while minimizing pneumatic energy consumption.

Within ARISE, this research is particularly relevant to the development of optimized soft actuator components for the project’s robotic systems. The methodology supports the selection of efficient actuator designs that can contribute to more capable and adaptable robotic manipulation, in line with the project’s ambition to advance AI-driven autonomous robotics for complex real-world tasks.

Importantly, the publication reports work carried out by HMU and does not involve experimental data or technical contributions from other ARISE partners. Its relevance to ARISE lies in the fact that the optimized actuator concepts are expected to support actuator development activities within the project.

The publication also demonstrates the importance of combining computational modelling with experimental validation. The optimized actuator designs were evaluated both numerically and experimentally, confirming the predictive capability of the proposed framework and its potential as a reproducible design tool for future soft robotic systems.

This contribution strengthens ARISE’s research output in soft robotics and supports the project’s broader goal of enabling advanced, reconfigurable, and energy-efficient robotic technologies for applications in sectors such as agriculture and renewable energy.

Publication title: Design Optimization of Soft Fabric Pneumatic Actuators
Journal: Advanced Intelligent Systems
Status: In proof stage
Authors: Grigorios M. Chatziathanasiou, Konstantina Tsintzira, Panagiotis Polygerinos
Partner: Hellenic Mediterranean University

Once published, the full article will be available through Advanced Intelligent Systems.