This invention is a medical device that utilizes soft-actuated materials for a range of biomedical applications, including simulation, rehabilitation, mechanical assistance, or complete replacement of muscular organs. High-potential, specific applications include heart stimulation and developing an implantable direct cardiac compression device to assist with pumping in a failing heart. It can also be used as a simulation device for medical training.

The key breakthrough in this invention is embedding actuators in soft material by reducing the threshold pressure, giving properties similar to that of biological tissue. This material will be a platform for a range of new biomedical devices, with the near-term targets being cardiac compression and heart stimulation.