A team of research engineers have achieved the highest strength ever recorded for robotic muscles.

Developments by a team from the National University of Singapore could stimulate a new age of robot physical capability, with the creation of new polymer fibres that boast incredible functional strength.

Like many recent developments in the field of robotics, engineers are finally able to replicate some of the efficiency and fluidity of movement enjoyed by humans and other biological beings.

“Our materials mimic those of the human muscle, responding quickly to electrical impulses, instead of slowly for mechanisms driven by hydraulics,” said Dr. Adrian Koh, leader of the four person team of research engineers.

“Robots move in a jerky manner because of this mechanism. Now, imagine artificial muscles which are pliable, extendable and react in a fraction of a second like those of a human. Robots equipped with such muscles will be able to function in a more human-like manner – and outperform humans in strength.”

The polymer fibres which make up the muscles can be stretched to more than 10 times their length, resulting in a strain displacement of 1000 per cent. The resulting invention has combined the best in polymers, mechanisms and electrical impulses for control to achieve the record-breaking feat of bearing 80 times its own weight while simultaneously extending to five times its original length.

The benefits of the development do not end with its lifting capacity. Dr Koh says his team are now looking at involving an electrical generator in the device, which could take excess mechanical energy and convert it back to electricity for an extra on-board supply.

The new technology is undergoing the patenting process now, it is hoped it will be on the market within five years, with excellent implications across the robotics and manufacturing industries.