Wireless magnetic polymer actuator for implantable applications

This paper reports a novel, wireless magnetic polymer material actuator for implantable devices. Unlike existing magnetically-driven actuators, the proposed configuration requires only a single electromagnet for actuation. The performance of this material actuator is evaluated within. In addition, the effects of changing material composition were also investigated. Results show the actuator is capable of wireless actuation from a distance of 6 mm, with a maximum displacement of 5 mm when exposed to a magnetic field (0.23 Tesla). The material actuator can also operate at relatively high frequencies, up to 29 Hz, compared with existing soft materials. Two actuators of different magnetic filler concentration, 10wt% and 20wt%, were tested. Increasing the magnetic filler concentration increased displacement but also resulted in increased material stiffness. The proposed magnetic polymer actuator demonstrated large displacement, high-frequency operation and most importantly, wireless actuation. Actuation did not require a physical electrical connection or onboard electronics, showing promise for inherently safe wireless implantable devices.