Abstract
Feasibility of a ferrofluidic actuator for an artifical heart was studied. A ferrofluidic actuator moves magnetic fluids by applying a magnetic field to magnetic fluids. When magnetic flux of 0.32T was applied to the interface of the ferrofluid and air, the ferrofluid was displaced and a pressure of 7.58kPa (57mmHg) was obtained. An array of four poles of solenoids was mounted near a U-shaped glass cylinder. Two solenoids were alternately activated. A pressure of 8.65kPa (65mmHg) was obtained. Calculations indicate magnetic flux of 0.49T is enough for obtaining a pressure of 13.3kPa (100mmHg). A ferrofluidic actuator is a promising actuator for an implantable artificial heart.
