Fiber‐Format Flexible Linear Electrostatic Motors

ABSTRACT

Linear motion is fundamental to robotics, yet existing solutions are either rigid electromagnetic motors or contractile artificial muscles with limited stroke and trade‐offs in force versus displacement. We report a sliding motor in a thin fiber format: a flexible, electrostatic linear actuator with a stroke limited only by fiber length. Comprising two coaxial fibers with helically wound electrodes, this “FiberMotor” generates bidirectional, fast, stepping motion with stroke‐independent force and inherent back‐drivability, a key feature for safe and transparent human–robot interaction. By eliminating permanent magnets and Joule heating, it offers a compact alternative to traditional motors. Modular bundling allows scaling to higher forces. Supported by an analytical model, this silent, lightweight technology can enable large‐scale integration into textiles, providing a promising building block toward future soft exosuits and wearable assistive devices.