Harnessing bistability for directional propulsion of soft, untethered robots Article Swipe

PDF

Related Concepts

Propulsion Robot Soft robotics Robotics Bistability Computer science Artificial intelligence Control engineering Actuator Proof of concept Software deployment Electronics Engineering Electrical engineering Aerospace engineering Physics Quantum mechanics Operating system

Tian Chen , Osama R. Bilal , Kristina Shea , Chiara Daraio ·

YOU? · · 2018 · Open Access · · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1800386115 · OA: W2804340326

Significance A major challenge in soft robotics is the integration of sensing, actuation, control, and propulsion. Here, we propose a material-based approach for designing soft robots. We show an untethered, soft swimming robot, which can complete preprogrammed tasks without the need for electronics, controllers, or power sources on board. To achieve propulsion, we use bistable shape memory polymer muscles connected to paddles that amplify actuation forces. As a proof of principle, we show that these robots can be preprogrammed to follow specific routes or deliver a cargo and navigate back to their deployment point. The proposed design principle can have a broad impact in soft robotics based on programed materials.