Abstract: Actuation devices and methods for using same are disclosed. The actuation device includes a first actuation layer including a plurality of first actuators operable within a first frequency range, and a second actuation layer provided on the first actuation layer, the second actuation layer including a plurality of second actuators operable within a second frequency range different from the first frequency range.

Abstract: A nanomaterial-coated mandrel-coiled twisted and coiled polymer fishing line (TCPFL) actuator, method, and computer program product for creating the mandrel-coiled TCPFL) actuator. A plurality of mandrel-coiled TCPFL muscles may be fabricated, wherein fabricating the plurality of mandrel-coiled TCPFL muscles may include synthesizing Graphene-C-Ni-PVA solution and coating the TCPFL with the Graphene-C-Ni-PVA solution.

Abstract: Technology disclosed herein provides a cannula TCP actuator comprising an annealed microtube assembly including a polymer microtube having inserted therein a resistive heating wire such that the resistive heating wire extends through the length of the polymer microtube, wherein the microtube assembly is arranged in a twisted and coiled tube. The cannula TCP actuator is fabricated by inserting a resistive heating wire into the polymer microtube, forming a microtube assembly by applying a longitudinal force to a first end of the polymer microtube in a direction parallel to a center axis of the polymer microtube and in an opposite direction relative to a second end of the polymer microtube, and applying a rotational force to the second end of the polymer microtube during application of the longitudinal force to cause the polymer microtube to twist and coil about the center axis, and annealing the microtube assembly.

Abstract: An actuator includes a twisted and coiled polymer fishing line and an untwisted resistance heating wire (TCPFLRHW) actuator and a coating on the TCPFLHRW actuator. The coating includes a mixture of carbon nanotubes, metal nanoparticles, and mesoporous carbon nanoparticles, and in some variations, the coating includes a polymer matrix with the carbon nanotubes, metal nanoparticles, and mesoporous carbon nanoparticles disposed in the polymer matrix. And the actuator exhibits enhanced actuator parameters such as actuator efficiency, hydrophobicity, power consumption, actuation frequency, dynamic actuation and cooling rate.