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This paper introduces a novel peristaltic pump design that simplifies actuation using a single pneumatic input and an embedded passive magnet to exploit magneto-elastic hysteresis. The pump's architecture and dynamics are analyzed through modeling and numerical simulations to predict internal fluid flow. Experimental validation of a prototype confirms the magneto-elastic hysteresis behavior predicted by the simulations, demonstrating the feasibility of the simplified design.
A single pneumatic input and clever use of magneto-elastic hysteresis can drive a surprisingly simple and effective peristaltic pump.
Pumping fluids is fundamental to a wide range of industrial, environmental, and biomedical applications. Among various pumping mechanisms, peristaltic pumps enable efficient and safe fluid transport by deforming an elastic tube without direct contact with the working fluid. Although previous studies have introduced mechanical, pneumatic, or magnetic actuations to drive membrane deformation, these approaches often lead to complex pump architectures and control schemes. In this study, we present a soft membrane pump that achieves peristaltic motion through a single pneumatic input combined with an embedded passive magnet. The actuation mechanism and system dynamics were analyzed and simplified through modeling. Numerical simulations were conducted to predict the internal fluid flow, and the magneto-elastic hysteresis behavior observed in the simulations was successfully validated by experiments with a proof-of-concept prototype.
