A newly published study, “Introducing Dimensional Analysis on Soft Inflatable Fabric Actuators”, by Odysseas Simatos and Panagiotis Polygerinos from SWAG partner Hellenic Mediterranean University, demonstrates a significant leap in the development and understanding of soft robotic systems.

With a focus on inflatable fabric actuators, the research sheds light on how dimensional analysis can streamline actuator design and performance optimisation. This approach provides a scientific basis for predicting and tuning actuator behavior across a wide array of operational scenarios.

Soft inflatable fabric actuators blend flexibility, strength, and adaptability, enabling robots and wearable devices to perform complex movements safely around humans. Traditionally, designing these systems has been a trial-and-error process due to their nonlinear mechanical properties. The authors’ application of dimensional analysis offers a powerful framework to interpret and predict how factors like material choice, geometry, and inflation conditions affect actuator function, substantially reducing costly experimental iterations.

For the SWAG project, this research opens new opportunities to integrate soft fabric actuators into real-world applications, from medical rehabilitation devices to adaptive wearables. By leveraging this analytical method, SWAG developers and partners can design smarter, more reliable actuators, ultimately driving innovation in soft robotics and human-technology interaction. Such foundational advancements contribute to the overarching goal of creating responsive and user-friendly wearable solutions.

As the SWAG project continues to explore next-generation soft robotic technologies, these insights mark an important milestone, working towards truly intelligent actuation systems supported by robust scientific principles.

The study was published in Advanced Intelligent Systems Journal, read it here.