Development of New Types of ER Fluid and Their Practical Application to Care and Rehabilitation Machines

Abstract

Asahi KASEI group developed two types of ER fluid and succeeded in employing them to practical applications. A homogeneous type consisting of liquid crystalline polysiloxane and a diluent was used for an intelligent brake in a caster walker which prevents a patient from stumbling. A heterogeneous (particle dispersion) type was used for a clutch in an upper limb training system with 3D movements and 3D vision. Key points for employing ER fluids in such devices with less trouble were introduced. The ER effect generation mechanisms of the homogeneous type fluids (type A and type B) were proposed.