On Thursday 27.2.2025 College of Engineering and Computer Science hosted a workshop which was presented by Dr. Mohamed Tahir. In this workshop, Dr. Mohamed Tahir delved into the world of actuators, focusing on the innovative design and applications of Hybrid Extendable Linear Actuators. Actuators, devices that convert electrical energy into motion, come in three main types: rigid, soft, and hybrid. While traditional rigid linear actuators (hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical) offer limited elongation, hybrid actuators present a revolutionary approach. These actuators, made from flexible materials, remain soft and pliable when curled but transform into a rigid structure upon extension, offering significant extension ratios far beyond 1:1.
Dr. Mohamed highlighted specific examples, including the Direct Roll-Out Extendable (DROX) Actuator, and discussed the various types of hybrid actuators based on arm formation methods, showcasing their unique capabilities and potential applications.
This workshop provided valuable insights into how hybrid actuators bridge the gap between soft and rigid systems, offering enhanced versatility and performance in fields ranging from robotics to industrial automation.
