Nurul Hidayah Rodzuan, Ili Najaa Aimi Mohd Nordin, Ahmad ‘athif Mohd Faudzi, Noraishikin Zulkarnain, Muhammad Rusydi Muhammad Razif, Nik Normunira Mat Hassan, Muhamad Hazwan Abdul Hafidz,
Volume 21, Issue 2 (6-2025)
Abstract
Rehabilitation devices like assistive gloves require bending-type soft actuators for controlled, repetitive finger movements essential for therapy. However, non-segmented actuators often struggle to replicate natural finger articulation, which can cause discomfort and reduce patient compliance. This paper presents the design and assembly of a segmented bending pneumatic soft actuator to achieve index finger flexion, aiming to improve comfort and support natural finger movement at low pressure. The actuator is integrated into a glove with a flexible bend sensor to measure the flexion angle of the metacarpophalangeal joint. Ecoflex 0-50 A-B silicone rubber is used in the fabrication, with air bubbles removed to ensure consistent actuator performance. The study investigates the actuator's performance and the sensor's ability to accurately measure joint flexion. The results, presented through detailed graphs, analyze the actuator’s flexibility, bending, and elongation under different pressure scenarios, offering insights into its effectiveness in improving patient comfort, joint articulation, and rehabilitation outcomes.
Z. N. Zakaria, M. S. Laili, N. A. Rahman, P. L. Lewin, T. Andritsch, N. Hussin,
Volume 21, Issue 2 (6-2025)
Abstract
The study investigates the electric field and space charge distributions in propylene carbonate under direct current (DC) applied fields using Kerr effect. Propylene carbonate is known for its high permittivity and is utilised in many applications, including electrochemical systems and dielectric materials. Understanding the behaviour of electric fields and space charge distributions within propylene carbonate is critical for optimising its performance in these applications. In the study, Kerr effect is employed which by applying the DC electric field across the test liquid for measuring the electric field and space charge distributions within the propylene carbonate. The experimental setup involved a controlled application of DC fields, and the Kerr effect measurements were conducted using an optical system. The results show significant understandings into the behaviour of space charges and their influence on the electric field distribution in propylene carbonate. Distinct patterns of charge accumulation and electric field distortion were observed and analysed in the dielectric liquid properties and charge transport mechanisms. The relationship between electric fields and space charges in propylene carbonate under DC conditions has been provided by the findings. The study also shows that the Kerr effect is a useful tool for studying electric field distributions in complex materials.
