Design and fabrication of exoskeletal motor system using an artificial muscle built from molecular motor

Abstract

This paper reports development of a motor system using bioactuator powered by molecular motor. In our study, we used self-organization of kinesin and microtubules linking pillar structures. Linking the artificial muscle to pillars on joint structure, the motor system is constructed. However, the organization area of the artificial muscle and driving area are limited in reagent environment. To drive the motor system in various environments, we designed a exoskeletal body in which has the reagent environment. Using parylene coating and sacrificial etching, we succeeded to make thin cylinder connected to two thin cylinders. Then we attempted organ the artificial muscle in the exoskeletal body.