The flexible actuator lifts 1000 times its own weight.

Researchers at the Italian Institute of Technology have developed 3D printed pneumatic artificial muscles based on soft actuators. Small actuators weighing 8 grams can lift a weight of 8 kg. The actuator membranes are capable of stretching and contracting like human muscles. Actuators can also be combined to mimic real muscles and body parts. The researchers connected 18 actuators of different sizes to create a robotic arm with a wrist. By applying pressure to the membranes of various actuators, the hand could flex its fingers, rotate the palm, and rotate the wrist.