The external sheath is fabricated starting from a commercial one.
5. Let the sheath cool down and remove the internal cylinder (c).
The sheath fabrication is based on a simple procedure. Remember that the development of the crimps has to ensure the necessary space to insert the module and the right distance between the crimps. These features ensure the right behavior of the module when the chambers are inflated. The sheath has the function to limit the radial expansion of the silicone when the chambers are inflated, avoiding the “balloon effect” showed in Design Section. Close crimps improve the expansion of the silicone along the motion direction optimizing the bending and the elongation movements. In addition, particular care is needed when heating the sheath because an overheating could degrade the material.