Self-Sensing Liquid Crystal Elastomer Actuator with Magnetic-Thermal Synergy
Shen Gao, Mingjun Tang, Xiao Lu, Chenghao Zhou, Yuyin Zhang, Tao Yue, Yue Wang
Abstract
Fueled by the rapid evolution of robotics, the demand for intelligent and lightweight robotic systems continues to grow across industries. However, conventional designs often separate sensing and actuation, resulting in structural complexity and diminished reliability. While integrated sensor-actuator systems offer a promising solution, they face significant challenges in manufacturing and scalability. Liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) are widely utilized in actuators for their thermally responsive deformation and programmability, while Neodymium-Iron-Boron (NdFeB) nanoparticles provide exceptional magnetic properties for sensing. This paper introduces a novel Self-Sensing LCE (SS-LCE) actuator, seamlessly combining LCE and NdFeB to enable simultaneous actuation and self-sensing capabilities. Under thermal stimulation, the actuator executes complex motions while delivering real-time feedback through magnetic field variations. Its programmability and adaptable fabrication process support diverse motion modes, unlocking broad application potential. By enhancing integration, reliability, and flexibility, this self-sensing actuator represents a pivotal advancement in the development of lightweight, intelligent robotic systems with significant research and industrial implications.
BibTeX
@inproceedings{iros2025_selfsensingliqui,
title = {Self-Sensing Liquid Crystal Elastomer Actuator with Magnetic-Thermal Synergy},
author = {Shen Gao and Mingjun Tang and Xiao Lu and Chenghao Zhou and Yuyin Zhang and Tao Yue and Yue Wang},
booktitle = {IROS 2025},
year = {2025}
}