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Qing H, Chi Y, Hong Y, Zhao Y, Qi F, Li Y, Yin J. Fully 3D-Printed Miniature Soft Hydraulic Actuators with Shape Memory Effect for Morphing and Manipulation. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024:e2402517. [PMID: 38808656 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202402517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Miniature shape-morphing soft actuators driven by external stimuli and fluidic pressure hold great promise in morphing matter and small-scale soft robotics. However, it remains challenging to achieve both rich shape morphing and shape locking in a fast and controlled way due to the limitations of actuation reversibility and fabrication. Here, fully 3D-printed, sub-millimeter thin-plate-like miniature soft hydraulic actuators with shape memory effect (SME) for programable fast shape morphing and shape locking, are reported. It combines commercial high-resolution multi-material 3D printing of stiff shape memory polymers (SMPs) and soft elastomers and direct printing of microfluidic channels and 2D/3D channel networks embedded in elastomers in a single print run. Leveraging spatial patterning of hybrid compositions and expansion heterogeneity of microfluidic channel networks for versatile hydraulically actuated shape morphing, including circular, wavy, helical, saddle, and warping shapes with various curvatures, are demonstrated. The morphed shapes can be temporarily locked and recover to their original planar forms repeatedly by activating SME of the SMPs. Utilizing the fast shape morphing and locking in the miniature actuators, their potential applications in non-invasive manipulation of small-scale objects and fragile living organisms, multimodal entanglement grasping, and energy-saving manipulators, are demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haitao Qing
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Yinding Chi
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Yaoye Hong
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Yao Zhao
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Fangjie Qi
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Yanbin Li
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Jie Yin
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
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2
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Wang H, Li X, Wang X, Qin Y, Pan Y, Guo X. Somatosensory Electro-Thermal Actuator through the Laser-Induced Graphene Technology. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2310612. [PMID: 38087883 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202310612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
The biological system realizes the unity of action and perception through the muscle tissue and nervous system. Correspondingly, artificial soft actuators realize the unity of sensing and actuating functions in a single functional material, which will have tremendous potential for developing intelligent and bionic soft robotics. This paper reports the design of a laser-induced graphene (LIG) electrothermal actuator with self-sensing capability. LIG, a functional material formed by a one-step direct-write lasing procedure under ambient air, is used as electrothermal conversion materials and piezoresistive sensing materials. By transferring LIG to a flexible silicone substrate, the design ability of the LIG-based actuator unit is enriched, along with an effectively improved sensing sensitivity. Through the integration of different types of well-designed LIG-based actuator units, the transformations from multidimensional precursors to 2D and 3D structures are realized. According to the piezoresistive effect of the LIG units during the deformation process, the visual synchronous deformation state feedback of the LIG-based actuator is proposed. The multimodal crawling soft robotics and the switchable electromagnetic shielding cloak serve as the demonstrations of the self-sensing LIG-based actuator, showing the advantage of the design in remote control of the soft robot without relying on the assistance of visual devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wang
- Institute of Advanced Structure Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Xuyang Li
- Institute of Advanced Structure Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Xiaoyue Wang
- Institute of Advanced Structure Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Yong Qin
- Institute of Advanced Structure Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Yang Pan
- Institute of Advanced Structure Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Xiaogang Guo
- Institute of Advanced Structure Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
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3
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Yao DR, Kim I, Yin S, Gao W. Multimodal Soft Robotic Actuation and Locomotion. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2308829. [PMID: 38305065 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202308829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Diverse and adaptable modes of complex motion observed at different scales in living creatures are challenging to reproduce in robotic systems. Achieving dexterous movement in conventional robots can be difficult due to the many limitations of applying rigid materials. Robots based on soft materials are inherently deformable, compliant, adaptable, and adjustable, making soft robotics conducive to creating machines with complicated actuation and motion gaits. This review examines the mechanisms and modalities of actuation deformation in materials that respond to various stimuli. Then, strategies based on composite materials are considered to build toward actuators that combine multiple actuation modes for sophisticated movements. Examples across literature illustrate the development of soft actuators as free-moving, entirely soft-bodied robots with multiple locomotion gaits via careful manipulation of external stimuli. The review further highlights how the application of soft functional materials into robots with rigid components further enhances their locomotive abilities. Finally, taking advantage of the shape-morphing properties of soft materials, reconfigurable soft robots have shown the capacity for adaptive gaits that enable transition across environments with different locomotive modes for optimal efficiency. Overall, soft materials enable varied multimodal motion in actuators and robots, positioning soft robotics to make real-world applications for intricate and challenging tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dickson R Yao
- Andrew and Peggy Cherng Department of Medical Engineering, Division of Engineering and Applied Science, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
| | - Inho Kim
- Andrew and Peggy Cherng Department of Medical Engineering, Division of Engineering and Applied Science, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
| | - Shukun Yin
- Andrew and Peggy Cherng Department of Medical Engineering, Division of Engineering and Applied Science, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
| | - Wei Gao
- Andrew and Peggy Cherng Department of Medical Engineering, Division of Engineering and Applied Science, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
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4
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Jung Y, Kwon K, Lee J, Ko SH. Untethered soft actuators for soft standalone robotics. Nat Commun 2024; 15:3510. [PMID: 38664373 PMCID: PMC11045848 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47639-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Soft actuators produce the mechanical force needed for the functional movements of soft robots, but they suffer from critical drawbacks since previously reported soft actuators often rely on electrical wires or pneumatic tubes for the power supply, which would limit the potential usage of soft robots in various practical applications. In this article, we review the new types of untethered soft actuators that represent breakthroughs and discuss the future perspective of soft actuators. We discuss the functional materials and innovative strategies that gave rise to untethered soft actuators and deliver our perspective on challenges and opportunities for future-generation soft actuators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeongju Jung
- Applied Nano and Thermal Science Lab, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul, 08826, South Korea
| | - Kangkyu Kwon
- Applied Nano and Thermal Science Lab, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul, 08826, South Korea
| | - Jinwoo Lee
- Department of Mechanical, Robotics, and Energy Engineering, Dongguk University, 30 Pildong-ro 1-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul, 04620, South Korea.
| | - Seung Hwan Ko
- Applied Nano and Thermal Science Lab, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul, 08826, South Korea.
- Institute of Engineering Research / Institute of Advanced Machinery and Design (SNU-IAMD), Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul, 08826, South Korea.
- Interdisciplinary Program in Bioengineering, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul, 08826, Korea.
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5
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Xiong Q, Zhou X, Li D, Ambrose JW, Yeow RC. An Amphibious Fully-Soft Centimeter-Scale Miniature Crawling Robot Powered by Electrohydraulic Fluid Kinetic Energy. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2308033. [PMID: 38303577 PMCID: PMC11005735 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202308033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Miniature locomotion robots with the ability to navigate confined environments show great promise for a wide range of tasks, including search and rescue operations. Soft miniature locomotion robots, as a burgeoning field, have attracted significant research interest due to their exceptional terrain adaptability and safety features. Here, a fully-soft centimeter-scale miniature crawling robot directly powered by fluid kinetic energy generated by an electrohydraulic actuator is introduced. Through optimization of the operating voltage and design parameters, the average crawling velocity of the robot is dramatically enhanced, reaching 16 mm s-1. The optimized robot weighs 6.3 g and measures 5 cm in length, 5 cm in width, and 6 mm in height. By combining two robots in parallel, the robot can achieve a turning rate of ≈3° s-1. Additionally, by reconfiguring the distribution of electrodes in the electrohydraulic actuator, the robot can achieve 2 degrees-of-freedom translational motion, improving its maneuverability in narrow spaces. Finally, the use of a soft water-proof skin is demonstrated for underwater locomotion and actuation. In comparison with other soft miniature crawling robots, this robot with full softness can achieve relatively high crawling velocity as well as increased robustness and recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan Xiong
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringNational University of Singapore15 Kent Ridge CresSingapore119276Singapore
| | - Xuanyi Zhou
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringNational University of Singapore15 Kent Ridge CresSingapore119276Singapore
| | - Dannuo Li
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringNational University of Singapore15 Kent Ridge CresSingapore119276Singapore
| | - Jonathan William Ambrose
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringNational University of Singapore15 Kent Ridge CresSingapore119276Singapore
| | - Raye Chen‐Hua Yeow
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringNational University of Singapore15 Kent Ridge CresSingapore119276Singapore
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Imato K, Hino T, Kaneda N, Imae I, Shida N, Inagi S, Ooyama Y. Wireless Electrochemical Gel Actuators. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2305067. [PMID: 37858925 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202305067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Soft actuators generate motion in response to external stimuli and are indispensable for soft robots, particularly future miniature robots with complex structure and motion. Similarly to conventional hard robots, electricity is suitable for the stimulation. However, previous electrochemical soft actuators require a tethered connection to a power supply, limiting their size, structure, and motion. Here, wireless electrochemical soft actuators composed of hydrogels and driven by bipolar electrochemistry are reported. Viologen, which dimerizes by one-electron reduction and dissociates by one-electron oxidation, is incorporated in the side chains of the gel networks and works as a reversible cross-link. Wireless and reversible electrochemical actuation of the hydrogels, i.e., muscle-like shrinking and swelling, is demonstrated at microscopic and even macroscopic scales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keiichi Imato
- Applied Chemistry Program Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Hiroshima University, 1-4-1 Kagamiyama, Higashihiroshima, 739-8527, Japan
| | - Taichi Hino
- Applied Chemistry Program Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Hiroshima University, 1-4-1 Kagamiyama, Higashihiroshima, 739-8527, Japan
| | - Naoki Kaneda
- Applied Chemistry Program Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Hiroshima University, 1-4-1 Kagamiyama, Higashihiroshima, 739-8527, Japan
| | - Ichiro Imae
- Applied Chemistry Program Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Hiroshima University, 1-4-1 Kagamiyama, Higashihiroshima, 739-8527, Japan
| | - Naoki Shida
- Department of Chemistry and Life Science Graduate School of Engineering Science, Yokohama National University, 79-5 Tokiwadai, Hodogaya-ku, Yokohama, 240-8501, Japan
| | - Shinsuke Inagi
- Department of Chemical Science and Engineering School of Materials and Chemical Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, 4259 Nagatsuta-cho, Midori-ku, Yokohama, 226-8502, Japan
| | - Yousuke Ooyama
- Applied Chemistry Program Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Hiroshima University, 1-4-1 Kagamiyama, Higashihiroshima, 739-8527, Japan
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7
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Delory A, Kiefer DA, Lanoy M, Eddi A, Prada C, Lemoult F. Viscoelastic dynamics of a soft strip subject to a large deformation. SOFT MATTER 2024; 20:1983-1995. [PMID: 38284472 DOI: 10.1039/d3sm01485a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
To produce sounds, we adjust the tension of our vocal folds to shape their properties and control the pitch. This efficient mechanism offers inspiration for designing reconfigurable materials and adaptable soft robots. However, understanding how flexible structures respond to a significant static strain is not straightforward. This complexity also limits the precision of medical imaging when applied to tensioned organs like muscles, tendons, ligaments and blood vessels among others. In this article, we experimentally and theoretically explore the dynamics of a soft strip subject to a substantial static extension, up to 180%. Our observations reveal a few intriguing effects, such as the resilience of certain vibrational modes to a static deformation. These observations are supported by a model based on the incremental displacement theory. This has promising practical implications for characterizing soft materials but also for scenarios where external actions can be used to tune properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Delory
- Institut Langevin, ESPCI Paris, Université PSL, CNRS, 75005 Paris, France.
- Physique et Mécanique des Milieux Hétérogènes, CNRS, ESPCI Paris, Université PSL, Sorbonne Université, Université de Paris Cité, F-75005, Paris, France
| | - Daniel A Kiefer
- Institut Langevin, ESPCI Paris, Université PSL, CNRS, 75005 Paris, France.
| | - Maxime Lanoy
- Laboratoire d'Acoustique de l'Université du Mans (LAUM), UMR 6613, Institut d'Acoustique - Graduate School (IA-GS), CNRS, Le Mans Université, 72085 Le Mans, France
| | - Antonin Eddi
- Physique et Mécanique des Milieux Hétérogènes, CNRS, ESPCI Paris, Université PSL, Sorbonne Université, Université de Paris Cité, F-75005, Paris, France
| | - Claire Prada
- Institut Langevin, ESPCI Paris, Université PSL, CNRS, 75005 Paris, France.
| | - Fabrice Lemoult
- Institut Langevin, ESPCI Paris, Université PSL, CNRS, 75005 Paris, France.
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8
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Armanini C, Junge K, Johnson P, Whitfield C, Renda F, Calisti M, Hughes J. Soft robotics for farm to fork: applications in agriculture & farming. BIOINSPIRATION & BIOMIMETICS 2024; 19:021002. [PMID: 38250751 DOI: 10.1088/1748-3190/ad2084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Agricultural tasks and environments range from harsh field conditions with semi-structured produce or animals, through to post-processing tasks in food-processing environments. From farm to fork, the development and application of soft robotics offers a plethora of potential uses. Robust yet compliant interactions between farm produce and machines will enable new capabilities and optimize existing processes. There is also an opportunity to explore how modeling tools used in soft robotics can be applied to improve our representation and understanding of the soft and compliant structures common in agriculture. In this review, we seek to highlight the potential for soft robotics technologies within the food system, and also the unique challenges that must be addressed when developing soft robotics systems for this problem domain. We conclude with an outlook on potential directions for meaningful and sustainable impact, and also how our outlook on both soft robotics and agriculture must evolve in order to achieve the required paradigm shift.
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Affiliation(s)
- Costanza Armanini
- Center for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (CAIR), New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Kai Junge
- CREATE Lab, Institute of Mechanical Engineering, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Philip Johnson
- Lincoln Institute for Agri-Food Tech, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, United Kingdom
| | | | - Federico Renda
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Marcello Calisti
- Lincoln Institute for Agri-Food Tech, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, United Kingdom
| | - Josie Hughes
- CREATE Lab, Institute of Mechanical Engineering, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland
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9
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Ke X, Yong H, Xu F, Chai Z, Jiang J, Ni X, Wu Z. Synergistical Mechanical Design and Function Integration for Insect-Scale On-Demand Configurable Multifunctional Soft Magnetic Robots. Soft Robot 2024; 11:43-56. [PMID: 37418155 DOI: 10.1089/soro.2022.0105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Meso- or micro-scale(or insect-scale) robots that are capable of realizing flexible locomotion and/or carrying on complex tasks in a remotely controllable manner hold great promise in diverse fields, such as biomedical applications, unknown environment exploration, in situ operation in confined spaces, and so on. However, the existing design and implementation approaches for such multifunctional, on-demand configurable insect-scale robots are often focusing on their actuation or locomotion, while matched design and implementation with synergistic actuation and function modules under large deformation targeting varying task/target demands are rarely investigated. In this study, through systematical investigations on synergistical mechanical design and function integration, we developed a matched design and implementation method for constructing multifunctional, on-demand configurable insect-scale soft magnetic robots. Based on such a method, we report a simple approach to construct soft magnetic robots by assembling various modules from the standard part library together. Moreover, diverse soft magnetic robots with desirable motion and function can be (re)configured. Finally, we demonstrated (re)configurable soft magnetic robots shifting into different modes to adapt and respond to varying scenarios. The customizable physical realization of complex soft robots with desirable actuation and diverse functions can pave a new way for constructing more sophisticated insect-scale soft machines that can be applied to practical applications soon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingxing Ke
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Manufacturing Equipment and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Haochen Yong
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Manufacturing Equipment and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Fukang Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Manufacturing Equipment and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhiping Chai
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Manufacturing Equipment and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiajun Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Manufacturing Equipment and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiang Ni
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Manufacturing Equipment and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhigang Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Manufacturing Equipment and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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10
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Zhao P, Yan L, Gao X. Magnetic Liquid Metal Droplet Robot with Multifunction and High Output Force in Milli-Newton. Soft Robot 2023; 10:1146-1158. [PMID: 37327366 DOI: 10.1089/soro.2022.0183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Magnetically actuated miniature robots have immeasurable potential in lab-on-a-chip and biomedical due to their ability to navigate in constrained space. However, current soft robots made by elastomers have limited functionalities and are prevented from very narrow environments such as channel much smaller than their size because of their non- or limited deformability. In this study, a soft and multifunctional robot based on liquid metal (magnetic liquid-metal droplet robot [MLDR]) with high output force is reported. It is fabricated by engulfing iron particles into a Galinstan droplet. By changing the shape and motion of permanent magnets, the MLDR can be reshaped and moved. The MLDR can also be split in batches and merged efficiently. It shows good softness and flexibility when navigating freely in a narrow channel, and thus can pass through a confined space smaller than its size easily. Furthermore, the MLDR can also push and spread the accumulated liquid in a desired path, and manipulate the motions of small objects well. Benefiting from the solidification-like phenomenon, an MLDR can output milli-Newton-level force much higher than the output force of ferrofluid droplet robots in micro-Newton level. The demonstrated capabilities of the MLDR are promising for the applications in lab-on-a-chip or biomedical devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiran Zhao
- School of Automation Science and Electrical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, China
| | - Liang Yan
- School of Automation Science and Electrical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, China
- Ningbo Institute of Technology, Beihang University, Ningbo, China
- Tianmushan Laboratory, Hangzhou, China
- Science and Technology on Aircraft Control Laboratory, Beihang University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoshan Gao
- School of Automation Science and Electrical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, China
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11
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Li J, Deng J, Zhang S, Chen W, Zhao J, Liu Y. Developments and Challenges of Miniature Piezoelectric Robots: A Review. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2305128. [PMID: 37888844 PMCID: PMC10754097 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202305128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Miniature robots have been widely studied and applied in the fields of search and rescue, reconnaissance, micromanipulation, and even the interior of the human body benefiting from their highlight features of small size, light weight, and agile movement. With the development of new smart materials, many functional actuating elements have been proposed to construct miniature robots. Compared with other actuating elements, piezoelectric actuating elements have the advantages of compact structure, high power density, fast response, high resolution, and no electromagnetic interference, which make them greatly suitable for actuating miniature robots, and capture the attentions and favor of numerous scholars. In this paper, a comprehensive review of recent developments in miniature piezoelectric robots (MPRs) is provided. The MPRs are classified and summarized in detail from three aspects of operating environment, structure of piezoelectric actuating element, and working principle. In addition, new manufacturing methods and piezoelectric materials in MPRs, as well as the application situations, are sorted out and outlined. Finally, the challenges and future trends of MPRs are evaluated and discussed. It is hoped that this review will be of great assistance for determining appropriate designs and guiding future developments of MPRs, and provide a destination board to the researchers interested in MPRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics and SystemHarbin Institute of TechnologyHarbin150001China
| | - Jie Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics and SystemHarbin Institute of TechnologyHarbin150001China
| | - Shijing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics and SystemHarbin Institute of TechnologyHarbin150001China
| | - Weishan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics and SystemHarbin Institute of TechnologyHarbin150001China
| | - Jie Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics and SystemHarbin Institute of TechnologyHarbin150001China
| | - Yingxiang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics and SystemHarbin Institute of TechnologyHarbin150001China
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12
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Arnaboldi S, Salinas G, Bichon S, Gounel S, Mano N, Kuhn A. Bi-enzymatic chemo-mechanical feedback loop for continuous self-sustained actuation of conducting polymers. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6390. [PMID: 37828004 PMCID: PMC10570360 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42153-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Artificial actuators have been extensively studied due to their wide range of applications from soft robotics to biomedicine. Herein we introduce an autonomous bi-enzymatic system where reversible motion is triggered by the spontaneous oxidation and reduction of glucose and oxygen, respectively. This chemo-mechanical actuation is completely autonomous and does not require any external trigger to induce self-sustained motion. The device takes advantage of the asymmetric uptake and release of ions on the anisotropic surface of a conducting polymer strip, occurring during the operation of the enzymes glucose oxidase and bilirubin oxidase immobilized on its surface. Both enzymes are connected via a redox polymer at each extremity of the strip, but at the opposite faces of the polymer film. The time-asymmetric consumption of both fuels by the enzymatic reactions produces a double break of symmetry of the film, leading to autonomous actuation. An additional break of symmetry, introduced by the irreversible overoxidation of one extremity of the polymer film, leads to a crawling-type motion of the free-standing polymer film. These reactions occur in a virtually unlimited continuous loop, causing long-term autonomous actuation of the device.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gerardo Salinas
- University Bordeaux, CNRS, Bordeaux INP, ISM, UMR 5255, F-33607, Pessac, France
| | - Sabrina Bichon
- Centre de Recherche Paul Pascal, University Bordeaux, CNRS, UMR 5031, Pessac, France
| | - Sebastien Gounel
- Centre de Recherche Paul Pascal, University Bordeaux, CNRS, UMR 5031, Pessac, France
| | - Nicolas Mano
- Centre de Recherche Paul Pascal, University Bordeaux, CNRS, UMR 5031, Pessac, France
| | - Alexander Kuhn
- University Bordeaux, CNRS, Bordeaux INP, ISM, UMR 5255, F-33607, Pessac, France.
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13
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Shen Y, Jin D, Fu M, Liu S, Xu Z, Cao Q, Wang B, Li G, Chen W, Liu S, Ma X. Reactive wetting enabled anchoring of non-wettable iron oxide in liquid metal for miniature soft robot. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6276. [PMID: 37805612 PMCID: PMC10560245 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-41920-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Magnetic liquid metal (LM) soft robots attract considerable attentions because of distinctive immiscibility, deformability and maneuverability. However, conventional LM composites relying on alloying between LM and metallic magnetic powders suffer from diminished magnetism over time and potential safety risk upon leakage of metallic components. Herein, we report a strategy to composite inert and biocompatible iron oxide (Fe3O4) magnetic nanoparticles into eutectic gallium indium LM via reactive wetting mechanism. To address the intrinsic interfacial non-wettability between Fe3O4 and LM, a silver intermediate layer was introduced to fuse with indium component into AgxIny intermetallic compounds, facilitating the anchoring of Fe3O4 nanoparticles inside LM with improved magnetic stability. Subsequently, a miniature soft robot was constructed to perform various controllable deformation and locomotion behaviors under actuation of external magnetic field. Finally, practical feasibility of applying LM soft robot in an ex vivo porcine stomach was validated under in-situ monitoring by endoscope and X-ray imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifeng Shen
- Sauvage Laboratory for Smart Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Dongdong Jin
- Sauvage Laboratory for Smart Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen, 518055, China.
| | - Mingming Fu
- Sauvage Laboratory for Smart Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Sanhu Liu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150001, China
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Welding and Joining, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Zhiwu Xu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150001, China
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Welding and Joining, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Qinghua Cao
- School of Materials Engineering, Shanghai University of Engineering Science, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Bo Wang
- School of Materials Engineering, Shanghai University of Engineering Science, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Guoqiang Li
- Sauvage Laboratory for Smart Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Wenjun Chen
- Sauvage Laboratory for Smart Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Shaoqin Liu
- Key Laboratory of Microsystems and Microstructures Manufacturing, School of Medicine and Health, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150080, China
| | - Xing Ma
- Sauvage Laboratory for Smart Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen, 518055, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Welding and Joining, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150001, China.
- Key Laboratory of Microsystems and Microstructures Manufacturing, School of Medicine and Health, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150080, China.
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14
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Schultzke S, Scheuring N, Puylaert P, Lehmann M, Staubitz A. A Photomechanical Film in which Liquid Crystal Design Shifts the Absorption into the Visible Light Range. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2302692. [PMID: 37661584 PMCID: PMC10602558 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202302692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Liquid crystalline polymer networks (LCN) with azobenzene monomers bend reversibly under UV-light irradiation, combining photomechanical and photothermal effects. However, the harmful nature of UV-light limits their use in biology and soft robotics. Although visible light-absorbing tetra-ortho-fluoro-substituted azobenzenes exist, liquid crystalline monomers have never been prepared. Previously, such azobenzenes were added as photoactive additives (up to 10%) to otherwise passive liquid crystalline polymer networks. In this work, a molecular design of a liquid crystalline, polymerizable azobenzene switchable by visible light is presented. The monomer assembles in a highly fluid nematic phase, but polymerizes in a layered smectic C phase. The films are produced solely from the monomer without additional liquid crystalline components and are actuated with visible light. Bending experiments in air and under water differentiate photomechanical and photothermal effects. Remarkably, a 60 µm splay aligned film maintains its deformation for hours, slowly reverting over days. Monomer liquid crystallinity is characterized using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), wide-angle X-ray scattering (WAXS), and polarized optical microscopy (POM); polymer films are analyzed using WAXS and DSC on a homogeneously aligned film. The synthetic procedure is high yielding and polymer film fabrication is scalable, which enables the use of safe and efficient photomechanical LCNs in soft robotics, engineering and biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sven Schultzke
- University of BremenInstitute for Analytical and Organic ChemistryLeobener Straße 7D‐28359BremenGermany
- University of BremenMAPEX Center for Materials and ProcessesBibliothekstraße 1D‐28359BremenGermany
| | - Nikolai Scheuring
- University of WürzburgInstitute of Organic ChemistryAm HublandD‐97074WürzburgGermany
| | - Pim Puylaert
- University of BremenInstitute for Inorganic Chemistry and CrystallographyLeobener Straße 7D‐28359‐BremenGermany
| | - Matthias Lehmann
- University of WürzburgInstitute of Organic ChemistryAm HublandD‐97074WürzburgGermany
| | - Anne Staubitz
- University of BremenInstitute for Analytical and Organic ChemistryLeobener Straße 7D‐28359BremenGermany
- University of BremenMAPEX Center for Materials and ProcessesBibliothekstraße 1D‐28359BremenGermany
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15
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Zhao P, Yan L, Gao X. A programmable ferrofluidic droplet robot. THE EUROPEAN PHYSICAL JOURNAL. E, SOFT MATTER 2023; 46:87. [PMID: 37752272 DOI: 10.1140/epje/s10189-023-00348-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Soft miniature robots have wide potential applications in lab-on-a-chip and biomedical sciences due to their deformability, safety, and remarkable controllability. However, current ferrofluidic droplet robots have some problems, such as easy broken, limited motion range and high energy consumption. Therefore, the objective of this study is to propose a programmable ferrofluidic flexible droplet robot (PFDR) with control strategies for elongation, splitting and merging behaviors by designing an actuation system consisting of a row of electromagnets and a robotic arm or a coordinate robot. The PFDR can not only deform actively to prevent itself from breaking, but also deform passively to fit the profile of channels or tubes to move efficiently. The actuation system can make PFDR have larger motion range as well as lower energy consumption. The design concept and the operating principle of PFDR are presented. The magnetic actuation system is developed. The lag of PFDR is analyzed in theoretical and experimental ways. The splitting and merging behaviors are investigated and other functionalities are studied as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiran Zhao
- School of Automation Science and Electrical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Liang Yan
- School of Automation Science and Electrical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China.
- Ningbo Institute of Technology, Beihang University, Ningbo, 315800, China.
- Tianmushan Laboratory, Hangzhou, 310023, China.
- Science and Technology on Aircraft Control Laboratory, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China.
| | - Xiaoshan Gao
- School of Automation Science and Electrical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China
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16
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Xu Y, Xiao B, Balakumar L, Obstein KL, Dong X. Wireless Millimeter-Size Soft Climbing Robots with Omnidirectional Steerability on Tissue Surfaces. IEEE Robot Autom Lett 2023; 8:5720-5726. [PMID: 37744315 PMCID: PMC10515379 DOI: 10.1109/lra.2023.3300570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Wirelessly actuated miniature soft robots actuated by magnetic fields that can overcome gravity by climbing soft and wet tissues are promising for accessing challenging enclosed and confined spaces with minimal invasion for targeted medical operation. However, existing designs lack the directional steerability to traverse complex terrains and perform agile medical operations. Here we propose a rod-shaped millimeter-size climbing robot that can be omnidirectionally steered with a steering angle up to 360 degrees during climbing beyond existing soft miniature robots. The design innovation includes the rod-shaped robot body, its special magnetization profile, and the spherical robot footpads, allowing directional bending of the body under external magnetic fields and out-of-plane motion of the body for delivery of medical patches. With further integrated bio-adhesives and microstructures on the footpads, we experimentally demonstrated inverted climbing of the robot on porcine gastrointestinal (GI) tract tissues and deployment of a medical patch for targeted drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilan Xu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37215, USA
| | - Boyang Xiao
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37215, USA
| | - Lohit Balakumar
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37215, USA
| | - Keith L. Obstein
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37215, USA
- Vanderbilt Institute for Surgery and Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37215, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Xiaoguang Dong
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37215, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37215, USA
- Vanderbilt Institute for Surgery and Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37215, USA
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17
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Zheng L, Hart N, Zeng Y. Micro-/nanoscale robotics for chemical and biological sensing. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:3741-3767. [PMID: 37496448 PMCID: PMC10530003 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00404j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
The field of micro-/nanorobotics has attracted extensive interest from a variety of research communities and witnessed enormous progress in a broad array of applications ranging from basic research to global healthcare and to environmental remediation and protection. In particular, micro-/nanoscale robots provide an enabling platform for the development of next-generation chemical and biological sensing modalities, owing to their unique advantages as programmable, self-sustainable, and/or autonomous mobile carriers to accommodate and promote physical and chemical processes. In this review, we intend to provide an overview of the state-of-the-art development in this area and share our perspective in the future trend. This review starts with a general introduction of micro-/nanorobotics and the commonly used methods for propulsion of micro-/nanorobots in solution, along with the commonly used methods in their fabrication. Next, we comprehensively summarize the current status of the micro/nanorobotic research in relevance to chemical and biological sensing (e.g., motion-based sensing, optical sensing, and electrochemical sensing). Following that, we provide an overview of the primary challenges currently faced in the micro-/nanorobotic research. Finally, we conclude this review by providing our perspective detailing the future application of soft robotics in chemical and biological sensing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liuzheng Zheng
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, 32611, USA.
| | - Nathan Hart
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, 32611, USA.
| | - Yong Zeng
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, 32611, USA.
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18
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Dai W, Wang J, Xiang K, Hu W, Sun J, Zhang H, Wang L. Highly Stretchable, Ultra-Sensitive, and Self-Healable Multifunctional Flexible Conductive Hydrogel Sensor for Motion Detection and Information Transmission. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023. [PMID: 37302071 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c06222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Self-healable flexible sensing materials are extensively investigated for their potential use in human motion detection, healthcare monitoring, and other fields. However, the existing self-healable flexible sensing materials have limited their application in real life due to the weak stability of the conductive network and the difficulty in balancing stretchability and self-healing performances. In this paper, a flexible sensor with skin-like properties was prepared by composing a polymer composite hydrogel with a multiple network structure consisting of polyaniline, polyvinyl alcohol, chitosan, and phytic acid. The composite hydrogel was tested and proved to own high mechanical properties (stretchability ≈ 565%, strength ≈ 1.4 MPa), good electrical conductivity (0.214 S cm-1), excellent self-healing properties (>99% healing efficiency in a 4 h healing period), and antibacterial properties. It had high sensitivity and a wide sensing range for strain and pressure, making it possible to manufacture multifunctional flexible sensors with comprehensive performance exceeding that of most flexible sensing materials. Notably, this polymer composite hydrogel can be manufactured in a large area and at a low cost, which is beneficial for its further application in many fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weisen Dai
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University of Engineering Science, 333 Longteng Street, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Jincheng Wang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University of Engineering Science, 333 Longteng Street, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Kailing Xiang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University of Engineering Science, 333 Longteng Street, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Wanying Hu
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University of Engineering Science, 333 Longteng Street, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Jibo Sun
- Wopu New Material Technology (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201620, P. R. China
| | - Hua Zhang
- Qidong Xirui New Material Technology Co., Ltd., Jiangsu 226200, P. R. China
| | - Liming Wang
- Zhejiang Tianshu Seal Co., Ltd., Zhejiang 314105, P. R. China
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19
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Giordano G, Murali Babu SP, Mazzolai B. Soft robotics towards sustainable development goals and climate actions. Front Robot AI 2023; 10:1116005. [PMID: 37008983 PMCID: PMC10064016 DOI: 10.3389/frobt.2023.1116005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Soft robotics technology can aid in achieving United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Climate Agreement through development of autonomous, environmentally responsible machines powered by renewable energy. By utilizing soft robotics, we can mitigate the detrimental effects of climate change on human society and the natural world through fostering adaptation, restoration, and remediation. Moreover, the implementation of soft robotics can lead to groundbreaking discoveries in material science, biology, control systems, energy efficiency, and sustainable manufacturing processes. However, to achieve these goals, we need further improvements in understanding biological principles at the basis of embodied and physical intelligence, environment-friendly materials, and energy-saving strategies to design and manufacture self-piloting and field-ready soft robots. This paper provides insights on how soft robotics can address the pressing issue of environmental sustainability. Sustainable manufacturing of soft robots at a large scale, exploring the potential of biodegradable and bioinspired materials, and integrating onboard renewable energy sources to promote autonomy and intelligence are some of the urgent challenges of this field that we discuss in this paper. Specifically, we will present field-ready soft robots that address targeted productive applications in urban farming, healthcare, land and ocean preservation, disaster remediation, and clean and affordable energy, thus supporting some of the SDGs. By embracing soft robotics as a solution, we can concretely support economic growth and sustainable industry, drive solutions for environment protection and clean energy, and improve overall health and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goffredo Giordano
- Bioinspired Soft Robotics, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Genova, Italy
- Department of Mechanics Mathematics and Management, Politecnico di Barit, Bari, Italy
- *Correspondence: Goffredo Giordano, , ; Saravana Prashanth Murali Babu, , ; Barbara Mazzolai,
| | - Saravana Prashanth Murali Babu
- SDU Soft Robotics, SDU Biorobotics, The Mærsk McKinney Møller Institute, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- *Correspondence: Goffredo Giordano, , ; Saravana Prashanth Murali Babu, , ; Barbara Mazzolai,
| | - Barbara Mazzolai
- Bioinspired Soft Robotics, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Genova, Italy
- *Correspondence: Goffredo Giordano, , ; Saravana Prashanth Murali Babu, , ; Barbara Mazzolai,
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20
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Lee YW, Kim JK, Bozuyuk U, Dogan NO, Khan MTA, Shiva A, Wild AM, Sitti M. Multifunctional 3D-Printed Pollen Grain-Inspired Hydrogel Microrobots for On-Demand Anchoring and Cargo Delivery. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2209812. [PMID: 36585849 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202209812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
While a majority of wireless microrobots have shown multi-responsiveness to implement complex biomedical functions, their functional executions are strongly dependent on the range of stimulus inputs, which curtails their functional diversity. Furthermore, their responsive functions are coupled to each other, which results in the overlap of the task operations. Here, a 3D-printed multifunctional microrobot inspired by pollen grains with three hydrogel components is demonstrated: iron platinum (FePt) nanoparticle-embedded pentaerythritol triacrylate (PETA), poly N-isopropylacrylamide (pNIPAM), and poly N-isopropylacrylamide acrylic acid (pNIPAM-AAc) structures. Each of these structures exhibits their respective targeted functions: responding to magnetic fields for torque-driven surface rolling and steering, exhibiting temperature responsiveness for on-demand surface attachment (anchoring), and pH-responsive cargo release. The versatile multifunctional pollen grain-inspired robots conceptualized here pave the way for various future medical microrobots to improve their projected performance and functional diversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Woo Lee
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Jae-Kang Kim
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Ugur Bozuyuk
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zurich, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
| | - Nihal Olcay Dogan
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zurich, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
| | - Muhammad Turab Ali Khan
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Anitha Shiva
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Anna-Maria Wild
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Metin Sitti
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zurich, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
- School of Medicine and College of Engineering, Koç University, Istanbul, 34450, Turkey
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21
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Hou Y, Dai Y, Zhang W, Wang M, Zhao H, Feng L. Ultrasound-Based Real-Time Imaging of Hydrogel-Based Millirobots with Volume Change Capability. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:422. [PMID: 36838121 PMCID: PMC9959195 DOI: 10.3390/mi14020422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Soft-bodied robots driven by external fields have better environmental adaptability, extending their applications. Nature also provides lots of inspiration for shape-morphing robot development, for example, larvae and jellyfish. This paper presents magnetically propelled hydrogel-based millirobots with volume changeability. The millirobot can be imaged in real time in a completely enclosed space with an ultrasound imaging system. Firstly, a custom-designed magnetic generating system with six square coils was introduced to generate a uniform field to propel the robot. The robot was fabricated using hydrogel with a thickness of around 300 μm. After programmable magnetization, the robot could change its shape and move using the rotating magnetic field. With the near-infrared illumination, the robot could shrink and could recover when the illumination stopped. Even when the robot shrank, it could be propelled by the external field, showing its potential usage in complex environments. Moreover, the posture information of the robot including the position and shape could be obtained in real time using ultrasound image technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaxin Hou
- Department of Diagnostic Ultrasound, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Yuguo Dai
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117583, Singapore
| | - Minghui Wang
- NO. 1 Outpatient Department of Xi Cheng District, Beijing Garrison, Beijing 100055, China
| | - Hanxue Zhao
- Department of Diagnostic Ultrasound, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Lin Feng
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100083, China
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22
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Wang Y, Shen J, Handschuh-Wang S, Qiu M, Du S, Wang B. Microrobots for Targeted Delivery and Therapy in Digestive System. ACS NANO 2023; 17:27-50. [PMID: 36534488 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.2c04716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Untethered miniature robots enable targeted delivery and therapy deep inside the gastrointestinal tract in a minimally invasive manner. By combining actuation systems and imaging tools, significant progress has been made toward the development of functional microrobots. These robots can be actuated by external fields and fuels while featuring real-time tracking feedback toward certain regions and can perform the therapeutic process by rational exertion of the local environment of the gastrointestinal tract (e.g., pH, enzyme). Compared with conventional surgical tools, such as endoscopic devices and catheters, miniature robots feature minimally invasive diagnosis and treatment, multifunctionality, high safety and adaptivity, embodied intelligence, and easy access to tortuous and narrow lumens. In addition, the active motion of microrobots enhances local penetration and retention of drugs in tissues compared to common passive oral drug delivery. Based on the dissimilar microenvironments in the various sections of the gastrointestinal tract, this review introduces the advances of miniature robots for minimally invasive targeted delivery and therapy of diseases along the gastrointestinal tract. The imaging modalities for the tracking and their application scenarios are also discussed. We finally evaluate the challenges and barriers that retard their applications and hint on future research directions in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Wang
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen518055, P.R. China
| | - Jie Shen
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Spine Surgery, Department of Spine Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen518036, P.R. China
| | - Stephan Handschuh-Wang
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen518055, P.R. China
| | - Ming Qiu
- Department of Neurosurgery, South China Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen518111, P.R. China
| | - Shiwei Du
- Department of Neurosurgery, South China Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen518111, P.R. China
| | - Ben Wang
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen518055, P.R. China
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23
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Maria-Hormigos R, Mayorga-Martinez CC, Pumera M. Soft Magnetic Microrobots for Photoactive Pollutant Removal. SMALL METHODS 2023; 7:e2201014. [PMID: 36408765 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202201014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
"Soft" robotics based on hydrogels appears as an alternative to the traditional technology of "hard" robotics. Soft microrobots are employed for drug delivery and cell manipulation. This work develops magnetic hydrogel-based microrobots using chitosan (CHI) as the body of the micromotor and Fe3 O4 nanoparticles to allow for its magnetic actuation. In addition, ZnO nanoparticles are incorporated inside the CHI body of the microrobot to act as an active component for pollutants photodegradation. CHI@Fe3 O4 -ZnO microrobots are used for the efficient photodegradation of persistent organic pollutants (POPs). The high absorption of CHI hydrogel enhances the POP photodegradation, degrading it 75% in just 30 min. The adsorption-degradation and magnetic properties of CHI@Fe3 O4 -ZnO microrobots are used in five cycles while maintaining up to 60% photodegradation efficiency. The proof-of-concept present in this work represents a simple way to obtain soft microrobots with magnetic actuation and photodegradation functionalities for several water purification applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Maria-Hormigos
- Center for Advanced Functional Nanorobots, Department of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, 616628, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Carmen C Mayorga-Martinez
- Center for Advanced Functional Nanorobots, Department of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, 616628, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Pumera
- Center for Advanced Functional Nanorobots, Department of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, 616628, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, South Korea
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB - Technical University of Ostrava, 70800, Ostrava, Czech Republic
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan
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24
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Dong H, Yang H, Ding S, Li T, Yu H. Bioinspired Amphibious Origami Robot with Body Sensing for Multimodal Locomotion. Soft Robot 2022; 9:1198-1209. [PMID: 35671518 DOI: 10.1089/soro.2021.0118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Animals have long captured the inspirations of researchers in robotics with their unrivaled capabilities of multimodal locomotion on land and in water, achieved by functionally versatile limbs. Conventional soft robots show infinite degrees-of-freedom (DOFs), making it hard to be actuated and conduct multiple movements especially for multimodal locomotion in different environments. An origami robot, which is capable of reversibly transforming the robotic shape by simple creases folding/unfolding, reveals advantages for imitating flexible movements of animals, thus drawing more and more attention. However, it poses substantial technological challenges for bioinspired design, sensing, and actuation of origami robots that can generate multimodal locomotion through performing complex morphologic deformation in different scenarios such as land and water. To relieve this issue, we propose a novel bioinspired amphibious origami machine with body sensing for multimodal locomotion. In this work, inspired by the peristalsis of inchworm and human swimming behaviors, a unique origami body with legs and origami arms is developed to enable the integrated robot to move both on land and in water. Instead of traditional electronic sensors, we design highly stretchable and foldable layer resistive sensor with conductive polymers coated onto the origami body to achieve robotic sensing such as obstacle detection. In addition, with detailed analysis, a self-designed pneumatic system of time division, multiplexing, and serialization is adopted to efficiently control the robot with high DOF. We eventually demonstrate that the fabricated origami robot successfully moves in amphibious environments, which is capable of crawling forward, turning right/left, and swimming. We expect that this work indicates contributions to advanced origami design, actuation control, and body sensor of the bioinspired robot with multimodal locomotion for broadly practical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huixu Dong
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Haitao Yang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Shuo Ding
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Tong Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Haoyong Yu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore
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25
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Mechanical responses of soft magnetic robots with various geometric shapes: locomotion and deformation. ROBOTICA 2022. [DOI: 10.1017/s0263574722001631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Soft magnetic robots have attracted tremendous interest owning to their controllability and manoeuvrability, demonstrating great prospects in a number of industrial areas. However, further explorations on the locomotion and corresponding deformation of magnetic robots with complex configurations are still challenging. In the present study, we analyse a series of soft magnetic robots with various geometric shapes under the action of the magnetic field. First, we prepared the matrix material for the robot, that is, the mixture of silicone and magnetic particles. Next, we fabricated a triangular robot whose locomotion speed and warping speed are approximately 1.5 and 9 mm/s, respectively. We then surveyed the generalised types of robots with other shapes, where the movement, grabbing, closure and flipping behaviours were fully demonstrated. The experiments show that the arching speed and grabbing speed of the cross-shaped robot are around 4.8 and 3.5 mm/s, the crawling speed of the pentagram-shaped robot is 3.5 mm/s, the pentahedron-shaped robot can finish its closure motion in 1 s and the arch-shaped robot can flip forward and backward in 0.5 s. The numerical simulation based on the finite element method has been compared with the experimental results, and they are in excellent agreement. The results are beneficial to engineer soft robots under the multi-fields, which can broaden the eyes on inventing intellectual devices and equipment.
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26
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Chi Y, Hong Y, Zhao Y, Li Y, Yin J. Snapping for high-speed and high-efficient butterfly stroke-like soft swimmer. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eadd3788. [PMID: 36399554 PMCID: PMC9674291 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.add3788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Natural selection has tuned many flying and swimming animals to share the same narrow design space for high power efficiency, e.g., their dimensionless Strouhal numbers St that relate flapping frequency and amplitude and forward speed fall within the range of 0.2 < St < 0.4 for peak propulsive efficiency. It is rather challenging to achieve both comparably fast-speed and high-efficient soft swimmers to marine animals due to the naturally selected narrow design space and soft body compliance. Here, bioinspired by the flapping motion in swimming animals, we report leveraging snapping instabilities for soft flapping-wing swimmers with comparable high performance to biological counterparts. The lightweight, butterfly stroke-like soft swimmer (2.8 g) demonstrates a record-high speed of 3.74 body length/s (4.8 times faster than the reported fastest flapping soft swimmer), high power efficiency (0.2 < St = 0.25 < 0.4), low energy consumption cost, and high maneuverability (a high turning speed of 157°/s).
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27
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Tan MWM, Bark H, Thangavel G, Gong X, Lee PS. Photothermal modulated dielectric elastomer actuator for resilient soft robots. Nat Commun 2022; 13:6769. [DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34301-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractSoft robots need to be resilient to extend their operation under unpredictable environments. While utilizing elastomers that are tough and healable is promising to achieve this, mechanical enhancements often lead to higher stiffness that deteriorates actuation strains. This work introduces liquid metal nanoparticles into carboxyl polyurethane elastomer to sensitize a dielectric elastomer actuator (DEA) with responsiveness to electric fields and NIR light. The nanocomposite can be healed under NIR illumination to retain high toughness (55 MJ m−3) and can be recycled at lower temperatures and shorter durations due to nanoparticle-elastomer interactions that minimize energy barriers. During co-stimulation, photothermal effects modulate the elastomer moduli to lower driving electric fields of DEAs. Bilayer configurations display synergistic actuation under co-stimulation to improve energy densities, and enable a DEA crawler to achieve longer strides. This work paves the way for a generation of soft robots that achieves both resilience and high actuation performance.
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28
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Greenwood TE, Cagle H, Pulver B, Pak OS, Lin Kong Y. Ingestible Functional Magnetic Robot with Localized Flexibility (MR-LF). ADVANCED INTELLIGENT SYSTEMS (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2022; 4:2200166. [PMID: 37994359 PMCID: PMC10665024 DOI: 10.1002/aisy.202200166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
The integration of an ingestible dosage form with sensing, actuation, and drug delivery capabilities can enable a broad range of surgical-free diagnostic and treatment strategies. However, the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is a highly constrained and complex luminal construct that fundamentally limits the size of an ingestible system. Recent advancements in mesoscale magnetic crawlers have demonstrated the ability to effectively traverse complex and confined systems by leveraging magnetic fields to induce contraction and bending-based locomotion. However, the integration of functional components (e.g., electronics) in the proposed ingestible system remains fundamentally challenging. Herein, the creation of a centralized compartment in a magnetic robot by imparting localized flexibility (MR-LF) is demonstrated. The centralized compartment enables MR-LF to be readily integrated with modular functional components and payloads, such as commercial off-the-shelf electronics and medication, while preserving its bidirectionality in an ingestible form factor. The ability of MR-LF to incorporate electronics, perform drug delivery, guide continuum devices such as catheters, and navigate air-water environments in confined lumens is demonstrated. The MR-LF enables functional integration to create a highly-integrated ingestible system that can ultimately address a broad range of unmet clinical needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor E Greenwood
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112 (USA)
| | - Henry Cagle
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112 (USA)
| | - Benson Pulver
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112 (USA)
| | - On Shun Pak
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Santa Clara University, Santa Clara, CA 95053 (USA)
| | - Yong Lin Kong
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112 (USA)
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29
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Ma JN, Zhang YL, Han DD, Sun HB. Reconfigurable, Reversible, and Redefinable Deformation of GO Based on Quantum-Confined-Superfluidics Effect. NANO LETTERS 2022; 22:8093-8100. [PMID: 36201184 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.2c02212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Graphene oxide (GO) films with natural "quantum-confined-superfluidics" (QSF) channels for moisture actuation have emerged as a smart material for actuators and soft robots. However, programming the deformation of GO by engineering QSF nanochannels around 1 nm is extremely challenging. Herein, we report the reconfigurable, reversible, and redefinable deformation of GO under moisture actuation by tailoring QSF channels via moisture-assisted strain-induced wrinkling (MSW). The shape fixity ratio of a general GO film can reach ∼84% after the MSW process, and the shape recovery ratio is ∼83% at room temperature under moisture actuation. The flexible shaping and deformation abilites, as well as the self-healing property of GO make it possible to fabricate soft robots using GO. Besides, as a proof-of-concept, passive electronics and soft robots capable of crawling, turning, switching circuit, and automatic somersault are demonstrated. With unique shaping and deformation abilities, GO may bring great implications for future soft robotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Nan Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Optoelectronics, College of Electronic Science and Engineering, Jilin University, 2699 Qianjin Street, Changchun130012, China
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Micro Nano Sensors & Artificial Intelligence Perception, College of Information and Computer, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan030024, China
| | - Yong-Lai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Optoelectronics, College of Electronic Science and Engineering, Jilin University, 2699 Qianjin Street, Changchun130012, China
| | - Dong-Dong Han
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Optoelectronics, College of Electronic Science and Engineering, Jilin University, 2699 Qianjin Street, Changchun130012, China
| | - Hong-Bo Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measurement Technology and Instruments, Department of Precision Instrument, Tsinghua University, Beijing100084, China
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30
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Tang Y, Li M, Wang T, Dong X, Hu W, Sitti M. Wireless Miniature Magnetic Phase-Change Soft Actuators. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2204185. [PMID: 35975467 PMCID: PMC7613683 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202204185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Wireless miniature soft actuators are promising for various potential high-impact applications in medical, robotic grippers, and artificial muscles. However, these miniature soft actuators are currently constrained by a small output force and low work capacity. To address such challenges, a miniature magnetic phase-change soft composite actuator is reported. This soft actuator exhibits an expanding deformation and enables up to a 70 N output force and 175.2 J g-1 work capacity under remote magnetic radio frequency heating, which are 106 -107 times that of traditional magnetic soft actuators. To demonstrate its capabilities, a wireless soft robotic device is first designed that can withstand 0.24 m s-1 fluid flows in an artery phantom. By integrating it with a thermally-responsive shape-memory polymer and bistable metamaterial sleeve, a wireless reversible bistable stent is designed toward future potential angioplasty applications. Moreover, it can additionally locomote inside and jump out of granular media. At last, the phase-change actuator can realize programmable bending deformations when a specifically designed magnetization profile is encoded, enhancing its shape-programming capability. Such a miniature soft actuator provides an approach to enhance the mechanical output and versatility of magnetic soft robots and devices, extending their medical and other potential applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yichao Tang
- School of Mechanical Engineering Tongji University Shanghai 201804, China; Physical Intelligence Department Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Mingtong Li
- Physical Intelligence Department Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems 70569, Stuttgart, Germany; Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM) Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices Soochow University Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China
| | - Tianlu Wang
- Physical Intelligence Department Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems 70569, Stuttgart, Germany; Institute for Biomedical Engineering ETH Zurich Zurich 8092, Switzerland
| | - Xiaoguang Dong
- Physical Intelligence Department Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems 70569, Stuttgart, Germany; of Mechanical Engineering Vanderbilt University Nashville, TN 37215, USA; Vanderbilt Institute for Surgery and Engineering Vanderbilt University Nashville, TN 37215, USA
| | - Wenqi Hu
- Physical Intelligence Department Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Metin Sitti
- Physical Intelligence Department Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems 70569, Stuttgart, Germany; Institute for Biomedical Engineering ETH Zurich Zurich 8092, Switzerland; School of Medicine and College of Engineering Koç University Istanbul 34450, Turkey
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31
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Shui L, Ni K, Wang Z. Aligned Magnetic Nanocomposites for Modularized and Recyclable Soft Microrobots. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:43802-43814. [PMID: 36100583 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c13108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Creating reconfigurable and recyclable soft microrobots that can execute multimodal locomotion has been a challenge due to the difficulties in material processing and structure engineering at a small scale. Here, we propose a facile technique to manufacture diverse soft microrobots (∼100 μm in all dimensions) by mechanically assembling modular magnetic microactuators into different three-dimensional (3D) configurations. The module is composed of a cubic micropillar supported on a square substrate, both made of elastomer matrix embedded with prealigned magnetic nanoparticle chains. By directionally bonding the sides or backs of identical modules together, we demonstrate that assemblies from only two and four modules can execute a wide range of locomotion, including gripping microscale objects, crawling and crossing solid obstacles, swimming within narrow and tortuous microchannels, and rolling along flat and inclined surfaces, upon applying proper magnetic fields. The assembled microrobots can additionally perform pick-transfer-place and cargo-release tasks at the microscale. More importantly, like the game of block-building, the microrobots can be disassembled back to separate modules and then reassembled to other configurations as demanded. The present study not only provides a versatile and economic manufacturing technique for reconfigurable and recyclable soft microrobots, enabling unlimited design space for diverse robotic locomotion from limited materials and module structures, but also extends the functionality and dexterity of existing soft robots to microscale that should facilitate practical applications at such small scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Langquan Shui
- Department of Engineering Mechanics, School of Civil Engineering, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, Hubei, China
| | - Ke Ni
- Department of Engineering Mechanics, School of Civil Engineering, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, Hubei, China
| | - Zhengzhi Wang
- Department of Engineering Mechanics, School of Civil Engineering, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, Hubei, China
- State Key Laboratory of Water Resources and Hydropower Engineering Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, Hubei, China
- Wuhan University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518108, China
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32
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Deng N, Li J, Lyu H, Huang R, Liu H, Guo C. Degradable silk-based soft actuators with magnetic responsiveness. J Mater Chem B 2022; 10:7650-7660. [PMID: 36128873 DOI: 10.1039/d2tb01328b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Soft actuators with stimuli-responsiveness have great potential in biomedical applications such as drug delivery and minimally invasive surgery. In this study, protein-based soft actuators with magnetic actuation are fabricated using naturally occurring silk proteins and synthesized Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles (NPs). Briefly, magnetic silk films are first prepared by solution casting of a mixture containing silk proteins, synthesized Fe3O4 NPs, and glycerol. The molecular structures of the magnetic silk films are characterized by FTIR spectroscopy, which show that the β-sheet content in the films is about 20%. The mechanical tests show that the magnetic silk films can be stretched to over 200% under wet conditions and Young's modulus is estimated to be 4.89 ± 0.69 MPa, matching the stiffness of soft tissues. Furthermore, the enzymatic degradability, good biocompatibility, and in vivo X-ray visibility of the films are demonstrated by the in vitro enzymatic degradation test, in vivo biocompatibility test, and micro-CT imaging, respectively. Degradable silk-based soft actuators with magnetic responsiveness are successfully prepared by thermal forming or plastic molding of the magnetic silk films. The fabricated soft actuators can be actuated and move with precise locomotive gaits in solutions using a magnet. In addition, the retention of the soft actuators and localized drug delivery in gastrointestinal tracts by attaching a magnet to the abdominal skin are demonstrated using model systems. The degradable silk-based soft actuators provide many opportunities for improving current therapeutic strategies in biomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niping Deng
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China.,School of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China.
| | - Jinghang Li
- School of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China.
| | - Hao Lyu
- School of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China.
| | - Ruochuan Huang
- School of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China.
| | - Haoran Liu
- School of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China.
| | - Chengchen Guo
- School of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China. .,Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou 310024, China
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33
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Zhan H, Dong B, Zhang G, Lü C, Gu Y. Nanoscale Diamane Spiral Spring for High Mechanical Energy Storage. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2022; 18:e2203887. [PMID: 35971189 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202203887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
A compact, stable, sustainable, and high-energy density power supply system is crucial for the engineering deployment of mobile electromechanical devices/systems either at the small- or large-scale. This work proposes a spiral-based mechanical energy storage scheme utilizing the newly synthesized 2D diamane. Atomistic simulations show that diamane spiral can achieve a high theoretical gravimetric energy density of about 564 Wh kg-1 , about 14 500 times the steel spring. The interlayer friction between diamane is found to cause a strong stick-slip effect that results in local stress/strain concentration. As such, the energy storage capacity of the diamane spiral can be tuned by suppressing the influence from the interlayer friction. Simulations affirm that higher gravimetric energy density can be achieved by reducing the turn number or adopting a low friction contact pair. The fundamental principles that dominate the energy storage capacity of the spiral spring are theoretically analyzed, respectively. The obtained insights suggest that the 2D vdW solids can be promising candidates to construct spiral structures with a high gravimetric energy density. This work should be beneficial for the design of reliable, stable, and sustainable nanoscale mechanical energy storage schemes that can be used as an alternative low-carbon footage energy supplier for novel micro-/nanoscale devices or systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haifei Zhan
- College of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
- School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD, 4001, Australia
- Center for Materials Science, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD, 4001, Australia
| | - Bin Dong
- College of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
| | - Gang Zhang
- Institute of High Performance Computing, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, 1 Fusionopolis Way, Singapore, 138632, Singapore
| | - Chaofeng Lü
- College of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering & Mechanics, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, P. R. China
| | - Yuantong Gu
- School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD, 4001, Australia
- Center for Materials Science, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD, 4001, Australia
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34
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Mao G, Schiller D, Danninger D, Hailegnaw B, Hartmann F, Stockinger T, Drack M, Arnold N, Kaltenbrunner M. Ultrafast small-scale soft electromagnetic robots. Nat Commun 2022; 13:4456. [PMID: 35945209 PMCID: PMC9363453 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-32123-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
High-speed locomotion is an essential survival strategy for animals, allowing populating harsh and unpredictable environments. Bio-inspired soft robots equally benefit from versatile and ultrafast motion but require appropriate driving mechanisms and device designs. Here, we present a class of small-scale soft electromagnetic robots made of curved elastomeric bilayers, driven by Lorentz forces acting on embedded printed liquid metal channels carrying alternating currents with driving voltages of several volts in a static magnetic field. Their dynamic resonant performance is investigated experimentally and theoretically. These robust and versatile robots can walk, run, swim, jump, steer and transport cargo. Their tethered versions reach ultra-high running speeds of 70 BL/s (body lengths per second) on 3D-corrugated substrates and 35 BL/s on arbitrary planar substrates while their maximum swimming speed is 4.8 BL/s in water. Moreover, prototype untethered versions run and swim at a maximum speed of 2.1 BL/s and 1.8 BL/s, respectively. Inspired by fast running cheetahs, the authors present a class of small-scale soft electromagnetic robots able to reach ultra-high running speeds of 70 BL/s (body lengths per second) as well as the ability to swim, jump, steer and transport cargo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoyong Mao
- Soft Materials Lab, Linz Institute of Technology, Johannes Kepler University, Altenberger Str. 69, 4040, Linz, Austria.
| | - David Schiller
- Soft Materials Lab, Linz Institute of Technology, Johannes Kepler University, Altenberger Str. 69, 4040, Linz, Austria.,Division of Soft Matter Physics, Institute for Experimental Physics, Johannes Kepler University, Altenberger Str. 69, 4040, Linz, Austria
| | - Doris Danninger
- Soft Materials Lab, Linz Institute of Technology, Johannes Kepler University, Altenberger Str. 69, 4040, Linz, Austria.,Division of Soft Matter Physics, Institute for Experimental Physics, Johannes Kepler University, Altenberger Str. 69, 4040, Linz, Austria
| | - Bekele Hailegnaw
- Soft Materials Lab, Linz Institute of Technology, Johannes Kepler University, Altenberger Str. 69, 4040, Linz, Austria.,Division of Soft Matter Physics, Institute for Experimental Physics, Johannes Kepler University, Altenberger Str. 69, 4040, Linz, Austria
| | - Florian Hartmann
- Soft Materials Lab, Linz Institute of Technology, Johannes Kepler University, Altenberger Str. 69, 4040, Linz, Austria.,Division of Soft Matter Physics, Institute for Experimental Physics, Johannes Kepler University, Altenberger Str. 69, 4040, Linz, Austria
| | - Thomas Stockinger
- Soft Materials Lab, Linz Institute of Technology, Johannes Kepler University, Altenberger Str. 69, 4040, Linz, Austria.,Division of Soft Matter Physics, Institute for Experimental Physics, Johannes Kepler University, Altenberger Str. 69, 4040, Linz, Austria
| | - Michael Drack
- Soft Materials Lab, Linz Institute of Technology, Johannes Kepler University, Altenberger Str. 69, 4040, Linz, Austria.,Division of Soft Matter Physics, Institute for Experimental Physics, Johannes Kepler University, Altenberger Str. 69, 4040, Linz, Austria
| | - Nikita Arnold
- Soft Materials Lab, Linz Institute of Technology, Johannes Kepler University, Altenberger Str. 69, 4040, Linz, Austria.,Division of Soft Matter Physics, Institute for Experimental Physics, Johannes Kepler University, Altenberger Str. 69, 4040, Linz, Austria
| | - Martin Kaltenbrunner
- Soft Materials Lab, Linz Institute of Technology, Johannes Kepler University, Altenberger Str. 69, 4040, Linz, Austria. .,Division of Soft Matter Physics, Institute for Experimental Physics, Johannes Kepler University, Altenberger Str. 69, 4040, Linz, Austria.
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35
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Zhu R, Zhang Y, Wang H. Miniature Mobile Robot Using Only One Tilted Vibration Motor. MICROMACHINES 2022; 13:mi13081184. [PMID: 36014106 PMCID: PMC9413211 DOI: 10.3390/mi13081184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
In miniature mobile robots, reducing the number of actuators can effectively reduce the size and weight of the robot. However, it is challenging to design a robot with as few actuators as possible without losing good motion performance. This work presented a simple-structured low-cost miniature mobile robot. It is driven by only a single tilted motor and yet is fully capable of being controlled to move forward and turn left or right on the ground. Based on the stick–slip mechanism, the robot’s motion is achieved by interplaying between the centrifugal force generated by the vibration motor tilted on the robot and the friction force of the robot. The robot’s speed can be controlled by regulating the magnitude and the period of the applied voltage. Finally, the robot can translate and rotate on the ground and follow various arbitrary paths. The prototype weighs only 11.15 g, costs $6.35, and is 20 mm in diameter and 25 mm in height. The proposed system is experimentally verified and demonstrates the controllability of the robot by the movement along a straight line, a circle, and more arbitrary paths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renjie Zhu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Robotics and Intelligent Systems, Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China; (R.Z.); (Y.Z.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Human-Augmentation and Rehabilitation Robotics in Universities, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yifan Zhang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Robotics and Intelligent Systems, Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China; (R.Z.); (Y.Z.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Human-Augmentation and Rehabilitation Robotics in Universities, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Hongqiang Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Robotics and Intelligent Systems, Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China; (R.Z.); (Y.Z.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Human-Augmentation and Rehabilitation Robotics in Universities, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Guangzhou 511458, China
- Correspondence:
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36
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Guan Z, Wang L, Bae J. Advances in 4D printing of liquid crystalline elastomers: materials, techniques, and applications. MATERIALS HORIZONS 2022; 9:1825-1849. [PMID: 35504034 DOI: 10.1039/d2mh00232a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Liquid crystalline elastomers (LCEs) are polymer networks exhibiting anisotropic liquid crystallinity while maintaining elastomeric properties. Owing to diverse polymeric forms and self-alignment molecular behaviors, LCEs have fascinated state-of-the-art efforts in various disciplines other than the traditional low-molar-mass display market. By patterning order to structures, LCEs demonstrate reversible high-speed and large-scale actuations in response to external stimuli, allowing for close integration with 4D printing and architectures of digital devices, which is scarcely observed in homogeneous soft polymer networks. In this review, we collect recent advances in 4D printing of LCEs, with emphases on synthesis and processing methods that enable microscopic changes in the molecular orientation and hence macroscopic changes in the properties of end-use objects. Promising potentials of printed complexes include fields of soft robotics, optics, and biomedical devices. Within this scope, we elucidate the relationships among external stimuli, tailorable morphologies in mesophases of liquid crystals, and programmable topological configurations of printed parts. Lastly, perspectives and potential challenges facing 4D printing of LCEs are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhecun Guan
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
| | - Ling Wang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, P. R. China.
| | - Jinhye Bae
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
- Chemical Engineering Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
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37
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Lee YW, Chun S, Son D, Hu X, Schneider M, Sitti M. A Tissue Adhesion-Controllable and Biocompatible Small-Scale Hydrogel Adhesive Robot. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2109325. [PMID: 35060215 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202109325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Recently, the realization of minimally invasive medical interventions on targeted tissues using wireless small-scale medical robots has received an increasing attention. For effective implementation, such robots should have a strong adhesion capability to biological tissues and at the same time easy controlled detachment should be possible, which has been challenging. To address such issue, a small-scale soft robot with octopus-inspired hydrogel adhesive (OHA) is proposed. Hydrogels of different Young's moduli are adapted to achieve a biocompatible adhesive with strong wet adhesion by preventing the collapse of the octopus-inspired patterns during preloading. Introduction of poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) hydrogel for dome-like protuberance structure inside the sucker wall of polyethylene glycol diacrylate hydrogel provides a strong tissue attachment in underwater and at the same time enables easy detachment by temperature changes due to its temperature-dependent volume change property. It is finally demonstrated that the small-scale soft OHA robot can efficiently implement biomedical functions owing to strong adhesion and controllable detachment on biological tissues while operating inside the body. Such robots with repeatable tissue attachment and detachment possibility pave the way for future wireless soft miniature robots with minimally invasive medical interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Woo Lee
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent System, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Sungwoo Chun
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent System, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
- Department of Electronics and Information Engineering, Korea University, Sejong, 30019, Republic of Korea
| | - Donghoon Son
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent System, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Xinghao Hu
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent System, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Martina Schneider
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent System, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Metin Sitti
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent System, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zürich, Zürich, 8092, Switzerland
- School of Medicine and College of Engineering, Koç University, Istanbul, 34450, Turkey
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38
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Zhang X, Xue P, Yang X, Valenzuela C, Chen Y, Lv P, Wang Z, Wang L, Xu X. Near-Infrared Light-Driven Shape-Programmable Hydrogel Actuators Loaded with Metal-Organic Frameworks. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:11834-11841. [PMID: 35192332 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c24702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Shape-programmable hydrogel-based soft actuators that can adaptively respond to external stimuli are of paramount significance for the development of bioinspired aquatic smart soft robots. Herein, we report the design and synthesis of near-infrared (NIR) light-driven hydrogel actuators through in situ photopolymerization of poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) hydrogels loaded with metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) onto the surface of the poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) thin film. The MOFs can not only function as an excellent photothermal nanotransducer but also accelerate the adsorption/desorption of water due to their porous nanostructure, which speeds up the response rate of the actuators. Shape-programmable hydrogel actuators are fabricated by tailoring the patterning of PDMS thin film, and thus different shape-morphing modes such as directional bending and chiral twisting are observed under the NIR light irradiations. As the proof-of-concept demonstrations, an artificial hand, biomimetic mimosa, and flower are conceptualized with light-driven MOF-containing hydrogel actuators. Interestingly, we are able to achieve an octopus-inspired light-driven soft swimmer upon cyclic NIR illumination due to the fast photoresponsiveness of as-prepared hydrogel actuators. This work can offer insights for fabricating programmable and reconfigurable smart aquatic soft actuators, thus shining a light into their potential applications in emerging fields including soft robots, biomedical devices, and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinmu Zhang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Pan Xue
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Xiao Yang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Cristian Valenzuela
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Yuanhao Chen
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Pengfei Lv
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Zhaokai Wang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Ling Wang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Xinhua Xu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
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39
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Wu B, Xue Y, Ali I, Lu H, Yang Y, Yang X, Lu W, Zheng Y, Chen T. The Dynamic Mortise-and-Tenon Interlock Assists Hydrated Soft Robots Toward Off-Road Locomotion. RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.34133/research.0015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Natural locomotion such as walking, crawling, and swimming relies on spatially controlled deformation of soft tissues, which could allow efficient interaction with the external environment. As one of the ideal candidates for biomimetic materials, hydrogels can exhibit versatile bionic morphings. However, it remains an enormous challenge to transfer these in situ deformations to locomotion, particularly above complex terrains. Herein, inspired by the crawling mode of inchworms, an isotropic hydrogel with thermoresponsiveness could evolve to an anisotropic hydrogel actuator via interfacial diffusion polymerization, further evolving to multisection structure and exhibiting adaptive deformation with diverse degrees of freedom. Therefore, a dynamic mortise-and-tenon interlock could be generated through the interaction between the self-deformation of the hydrogel actuator and rough terrains, inducing continual multidimensional locomotion on various artificial rough substrates and natural sandy terrain. Interestingly, benefiting from the powerful mechanical energy transfer capability, the crawlable hydrogel actuators could also be utilized as hydrogel motors to activate static cargos to overstep complex terrains, which exhibit the potential application of a biomimetic mechanical discoloration device. Therefore, we believe that this design principle and control strategy may be of potential interest to the field of deformable materials, soft robots, and biomimetic devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baoyi Wu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Materials and Related Technologies, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Marine Materials and Protective Technologies, Ningbo Institute of Material Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China
- School of Chemical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yaoting Xue
- Department of Engineering Mechanics, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Israt Ali
- INRS-EMT, 1650 Boul. Lionel Boulet, Varennes J3X 0A1, Canada
| | - Huanhuan Lu
- College of Chemical Engineering, Ningbo Polytechnic, Ningbo 315800, China
| | - Yuming Yang
- Key Laboratory for Biomedical Engineering of Ministry of Education Ministry of China, Key Laboratory of Clinical Evaluation Technology for Medical Device of Zhejiang Province, College of Biomedical Engineering and Instrument Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Xuxu Yang
- Department of Engineering Mechanics, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Wei Lu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Materials and Related Technologies, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Marine Materials and Protective Technologies, Ningbo Institute of Material Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China
- School of Chemical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yinfei Zheng
- Key Laboratory for Biomedical Engineering of Ministry of Education Ministry of China, Key Laboratory of Clinical Evaluation Technology for Medical Device of Zhejiang Province, College of Biomedical Engineering and Instrument Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
- Research Center for Humanoid Sensing, Zhejiang Lab, Hangzhou 311100, China
| | - Tao Chen
- Key Laboratory of Marine Materials and Related Technologies, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Marine Materials and Protective Technologies, Ningbo Institute of Material Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China
- School of Chemical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
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40
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Acharya R, Challita EJ, Ilton M, Saad Bhamla M. The ultrafast snap of a finger is mediated by skin friction. J R Soc Interface 2021; 18:20210672. [PMID: 34784775 PMCID: PMC8596009 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2021.0672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The snap of a finger has been used as a form of communication and music for millennia across human cultures. However, a systematic analysis of the dynamics of this rapid motion has not yet been performed. Using high-speed imaging and force sensors, we analyse the dynamics of the finger snap. We discover that the finger snap achieves peak angular accelerations of 1.6 × 106° s-2 in 7 ms, making it one of the fastest recorded angular accelerations the human body produces (exceeding professional baseball pitches). Our analysis reveals the central role of skin friction in mediating the snap dynamics by acting as a latch to control the resulting high velocities and accelerations. We evaluate the role of this frictional latch experimentally, by covering the thumb and middle finger with different materials to produce different friction coefficients and varying compressibility. In doing so, we reveal that the compressible, frictional latch of the finger pads likely operates in a regime optimally tuned for both friction and compression. We also develop a soft, compressible friction-based latch-mediated spring actuated model to further elucidate the key role of friction and how it interacts with a compressible latch. Our mathematical model reveals that friction plays a dual role in the finger snap, both aiding in force loading and energy storage while hindering energy release. Our work reveals how friction between surfaces can be harnessed as a tunable latch system and provides design insight towards the frictional complexity in many robotic and ultra-fast energy-release structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raghav Acharya
- Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30311, USA
| | - Elio J. Challita
- Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30311, USA,George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Tech, Atlanta, GA 30311, USA
| | - Mark Ilton
- Department of Physics, Harvey Mudd College, Claremont, CA 91711, USA
| | - M. Saad Bhamla
- Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30311, USA
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41
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Huan X, Lee S, Lee H, Xu Z, Yang J, Chen M, Liu Y, Kim JT. One-Step, Continuous Three-Dimensional Printing of Multi-Stimuli-Responsive Bilayer Microactuators via a Double-Barreled Theta Pipette. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2021; 13:43396-43403. [PMID: 34472833 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c12574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Although there has been extensive development and exploration of small-scale robots, the technological challenges associated with their complicated and high-cost fabrication processes remain unresolved. Here, we report a one-step, bi-material, high-resolution three-dimensional (3D) printing method for the fabrication of multi-stimuli-responsive microactuators. This method exploits a two-phase femtoliter ink meniscus formed on a double-barreled theta micropipette to continuously print a freestanding bilayer microstructure, which undergoes an asymmetric volume change upon the adsorption or desorption of water. We show that the 3D-printed bilayer microstructures exhibit reversible, reproducible actuation in ambient humidity or under illumination with infrared light. Our 3D printing approach can assemble bilayer segments for programming microscale actuation, as demonstrated by proof-of-concept experiments. We expect that this method will serve as the basis for flexible, programmable, one-step routes for the assembly of small-scale intelligent actuators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Huan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
| | - Sanghyeon Lee
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
| | - Heekwon Lee
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zhaoyi Xu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jihyuk Yang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
| | - Mojun Chen
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ji Tae Kim
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
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42
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Xu C, Yang Z, Lum GZ. Small-Scale Magnetic Actuators with Optimal Six Degrees-of-Freedom. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2021; 33:e2100170. [PMID: 33938046 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202100170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Magnetic miniature robots (MMRs) are small-scale, untethered actuators which can be controlled by magnetic fields. As these actuators can non-invasively access highly confined and enclosed spaces; they have great potential to revolutionize numerous applications in robotics, materials science, and biomedicine. While the creation of MMRs with six-degrees-of-freedom (six-DOF) represents a major advancement for this class of actuators, these robots are not widely adopted due to two critical limitations: i) under precise orientation control, these MMRs have slow sixth-DOF angular velocities (4 degree s-1 ) and it is difficult to apply desired magnetic forces on them; ii) such MMRs cannot perform soft-bodied functionalities. Here a fabrication method that can magnetize optimal MMRs to produce 51-297-fold larger sixth-DOF torque than existing small-scale, magnetic actuators is introduced. A universal actuation method that is applicable for rigid and soft MMRs with six-DOF is also proposed. Under precise orientation control, the optimal MMRs can execute full six-DOF motions reliably and achieve sixth-DOF angular velocities of 173 degree s-1 . The soft MMRs can display unprecedented functionalities; the six-DOF jellyfish-like robot can swim across barriers impassable by existing similar devices and the six-DOF gripper is 20-folds quicker than its five-DOF predecessor in completing a complicated, small-scale assembly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changyu Xu
- Nanyang Technological University, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Zilin Yang
- Nanyang Technological University, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Guo Zhan Lum
- Nanyang Technological University, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
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43
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Martinez RV. The jig is up for small soft machines. Sci Robot 2021; 6:6/53/eabi4666. [PMID: 34043575 DOI: 10.1126/scirobotics.abi4666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
A watchmaker's approach yields small, agile, soft machines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramses V Martinez
- School of Industrial Engineering, Purdue University, 315 N. Grant Street, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.,Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, 206 S. Martin Jischke Drive, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.
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