[keenerd]

The "big new thing" about this is that it doesn't use compressed air the way traditional air muscles do. It doesn't use compressed air at all.

You're probably going to say that vacuum pumps are noisy/heavy next. But this doesn't need traditional high-grade vacuum pumps, very low grade will work. And of course it is entirely moot for industrial machines that stand in place.

From what I can tell the trick comes from the pleating to massively increase surface area, giving atmospheric pressure more to work with.

I've been working with robotics (as a hobbyist) my entire life. This is the most exciting thing that I've seen in a while and I'll be building prototype knockoffs all week.

[DennisP]

If you get something working I'd love to see a how-to article.

[cr0sh]

Heck, you could probably replicate it somewhat with a plastic baggie, some bits of cardboard, and a straw. Add some duct tape and hot glue, and you'd be set.

[Applejinx]

It could.

If you want to re-extend one of the muscles QUICK ;)