Patent attributes
The present application relates to improvements in support systems for holding one or more robotic actuators, particularly soft robotic actuators. Because soft robotic actuators tend to push away from a base to which they are fixed upon inflation, they must be hold to the base securely. However, this may render it more difficult to remove the actuator from the base (e.g., when the actuator fails, when the actuator and/or base must be cleaned or serviced, or when a user wishes to switch out one style or size of actuator for another). Exemplary embodiments herein relate to improved designs for hubs, including interlocking and quick-release mechanisms that allow the actuator to be held firmly to the hub, but also allow the actuator to be quickly and efficiently released, when needed.
