Artificial Muscle, a maker of actuators powered by an electroactive polymer, raised $20 million in a second funding round. The company’s release is here.

The company, founded by SRI International, builds components such as auto-focus lens positioners and a “universal” actuator whose movements are controlled in a muscle-like fashion by a special polymer that converts electrical energy into mechanical motion. It hopes to expand use of its technology into medical, automotive, energy and industrial applications.

The round was led by AllianceBernstein‘s venture arm. Also joining were Arch Venture Partners, NGEN Partners, Vanguard Ventures, Micron Technology, Parker Hannifin, and CTTV Investments.

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