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Jamali A, Mishra DB, Goldschmidtboeing F, Woias P. Soft octopus-inspired suction cups using dielectric elastomer actuators with sensing capabilities. BIOINSPIRATION & BIOMIMETICS 2024; 19:036009. [PMID: 38467068 DOI: 10.1088/1748-3190/ad3266] [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: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Bioinspired and biomimetic soft grippers are rapidly growing fields. They represent an advancement in soft robotics as they emulate the adaptability and flexibility of biological end effectors. A prominent example of a gripping mechanism found in nature is the octopus tentacle, enabling the animal to attach to rough and irregular surfaces. Inspired by the structure and morphology of the tentacles, this study introduces a novel design, fabrication, and characterization method of dielectric elastomer suction cups. To grasp objects, the developed suction cups perform out-of-plane deflections as the suction mechanism. Their attachment mechanism resembles that of their biological counterparts, as they do not require a pre-stretch over a rigid frame or any external hydraulic or pneumatic support to form and hold the dome structure of the suction cups. The realized artificial suction cups demonstrate the capability of generating a negative pressure up to 1.3 kPa in air and grasping and lifting objects with a maximum 58 g weight under an actuation voltage of 6 kV. They also have sensing capabilities to determine whether the grasping was successful without the need of lifting the objects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armin Jamali
- Department of Microsystems Engineering (IMTEK), University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence livMatS @ FIT-Freiburg Center for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired Technologies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Dushyant Bhagwan Mishra
- Department of Microsystems Engineering (IMTEK), University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence livMatS @ FIT-Freiburg Center for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired Technologies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Frank Goldschmidtboeing
- Department of Microsystems Engineering (IMTEK), University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence livMatS @ FIT-Freiburg Center for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired Technologies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Peter Woias
- Department of Microsystems Engineering (IMTEK), University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence livMatS @ FIT-Freiburg Center for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired Technologies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
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2
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Mendoza Nava H, Holderied MW, Pirrera A, Groh RMJ. Buckling-induced sound production in the aeroelastic tymbals of Yponomeuta. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2313549121. [PMID: 38315846 PMCID: PMC10873622 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2313549121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The loss of elastic stability (buckling) can lead to catastrophic failure in the context of traditional engineering structures. Conversely, in nature, buckling often serves a desirable function, such as in the prey-trapping mechanism of the Venus fly trap (Dionaea muscipula). This paper investigates the buckling-enabled sound production in the wingbeat-powered (aeroelastic) tymbals of Yponomeuta moths. The hindwings of Yponomeuta possess a striated band of ridges that snap through sequentially during the up- and downstroke of the wingbeat cycle-a process reminiscent of cellular buckling in compressed slender shells. As a result, bursts of ultrasonic clicks are produced that deter predators (i.e. bats). Using various biological and mechanical characterization techniques, we show that wing camber changes during the wingbeat cycle act as the single actuation mechanism that causes buckling to propagate sequentially through each stria on the tymbal. The snap-through of each stria excites a bald patch of the wing's membrane, thereby amplifying sound pressure levels and radiating sound at the resonant frequencies of the patch. In addition, the interaction of phased tymbal clicks from the two wings enhances the directivity of the acoustic signal strength, suggesting an improvement in acoustic protection. These findings unveil the acousto-mechanics of Yponomeuta tymbals and uncover their buckling-driven evolutionary origin. We anticipate that through bioinspiration, aeroelastic tymbals will encourage novel developments in the context of multi-stable morphing structures, acoustic structural monitoring, and soft robotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hernaldo Mendoza Nava
- Bristol Composites Institute, School of Civil, Aerospace & Design Engineering, University of Bristol, BristolBS8 1TR, United Kingdom
| | - Marc W. Holderied
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, BristolBS8 1TQ, United Kingdom
| | - Alberto Pirrera
- Bristol Composites Institute, School of Civil, Aerospace & Design Engineering, University of Bristol, BristolBS8 1TR, United Kingdom
| | - Rainer M. J. Groh
- Bristol Composites Institute, School of Civil, Aerospace & Design Engineering, University of Bristol, BristolBS8 1TR, United Kingdom
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3
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Jeong HB, Kim C, Lee A, Kim HY. Sequential Multimodal Morphing of Single-Input Pneu-Nets. Soft Robot 2023; 10:1137-1145. [PMID: 37335938 DOI: 10.1089/soro.2022.0216] [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: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Soft actuators provide an attractive means for locomotion, gripping, and deployment of those machines and robots used in biomedicine, wearable electronics, automated manufacturing, etc. In this study, we focus on the shape-morphing ability of soft actuators made of pneumatic networks (pneu-nets), which are easy to fabricate with inexpensive elastomers and to drive with air pressure. As a conventional pneumatic network system morphs into a single designated state, achieving multimodal morphing has required multiple air inputs, channels, and chambers, making the system highly complex and hard to control. In this study, we develop a pneu-net system that can change its shape into multiple forms as a single input pressure increases. We achieve this single-input and multimorphing by combining pneu-net modules of different materials and geometry, while harnessing the strain-hardening characteristics of elastomers to prevent overinflation. Using theoretical models, we not only predict the shape evolution of pneu-nets with pressure change but also design pneu-nets to sequentially bend, stretch, and twist at distinct pressure points. We show that our design strategy enables a single device to carry out multiple functions, such as grabbing-turning a light bulb and holding-lifting a jar.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Bi Jeong
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Cheongsan Kim
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Anna Lee
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang, South Korea
| | - Ho-Young Kim
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
- Seoul National University Institute of Advanced Machines and Design, Seoul, South Korea
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Wang B, Hou Y, Zhong S, Zhu J, Guan C. Biomimetic Venus Flytrap Structures Using Smart Composites: A Review. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 16:6702. [PMID: 37895684 PMCID: PMC10608135 DOI: 10.3390/ma16206702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Biomimetic structures are inspired by elegant and complex architectures of natural creatures, drawing inspiration from biological structures to achieve specific functions or improve specific strength and modulus to reduce weight. In particular, the rapid closure of a Venus flytrap leaf is one of the fastest motions in plants, its biomechanics does not rely on muscle tissues to produce rapid shape-changing, which is significant for engineering applications. Composites are ubiquitous in nature and are used for biomimetic design due to their superior overall performance and programmability. Here, we focus on reviewing the most recent progress on biomimetic Venus flytrap structures based on smart composite technology. An overview of the biomechanics of Venus flytrap is first introduced, in order to reveal the underlying mechanisms. The smart composite technology was then discussed by covering mainly the principles and driving mechanics of various types of bistable composite structures, followed by research progress on the smart composite-based biomimetic flytrap structures, with a focus on the bionic strategies in terms of sensing, responding and actuation, as well as the rapid snap-trapping, aiming to enrich the diversities and reveal the fundamentals in order to further advance the multidisciplinary science and technological development into composite bionics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Wang
- School of Advanced Manufacturing, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 362251, China; (B.W.)
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Terahertz Functional Devices and Intelligent Sensing, School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China;
| | - Yi Hou
- School of Advanced Manufacturing, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 362251, China; (B.W.)
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Terahertz Functional Devices and Intelligent Sensing, School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China;
| | - Shuncong Zhong
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Terahertz Functional Devices and Intelligent Sensing, School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China;
| | - Juncheng Zhu
- School of Advanced Manufacturing, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 362251, China; (B.W.)
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Terahertz Functional Devices and Intelligent Sensing, School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China;
| | - Chenglong Guan
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Terahertz Functional Devices and Intelligent Sensing, School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China;
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5
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Yang J, Wang F, Lu Y. Design of a Bistable Artificial Venus Flytrap Actuated by Low Pressure with Larger Capture Range and Faster Responsiveness. Biomimetics (Basel) 2023; 8:biomimetics8020181. [PMID: 37218767 DOI: 10.3390/biomimetics8020181] [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: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The rapid closure of the Venus flytrap (Dionaea muscipula) can be completed within 0.1-0.5 s due to the bistability of hyperbolic leaves and the curvature change of midrib. Inspired by its bistable behavior, this paper presents a novel bioinspired pneumatic artificial Venus flytrap (AVFT), which can achieve a larger capture range and faster closure action at low working pressure and low energy consumption. Soft fiber-reinforced bending actuators are inflated to move artificial leaves and artificial midrib fabricated from bistable antisymmetric laminated carbon fiber-reinforced prepreg (CFRP) structures, and then the AVFT is rapidly closed. A two-parameter theoretical model is used to prove the bistability of the selected antisymmetric laminated CFRP structure, and analyze the factors affecting the curvature in the second stable state. Two physical quantities, critical trigger force and tip force, are introduced to associate the artificial leaf/midrib with the soft actuator. A dimension optimization framework for soft actuators is developed to reduce their working pressures. The results show that the closure range of the AVFT is extended to 180°, and the snap time is shortened to 52 ms by introducing the artificial midrib. The potential application of the AVFT for grasping objects is also shown. This research can provide a new paradigm for the study of biomimetic structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junchang Yang
- Bio-Inspired and Advanced Energy Research Center, School of Mechanics, Civil Engineering and Architecture, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710129, China
| | - Fenghui Wang
- Bio-Inspired and Advanced Energy Research Center, School of Mechanics, Civil Engineering and Architecture, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710129, China
| | - Yongjun Lu
- Bio-Inspired and Advanced Energy Research Center, School of Mechanics, Civil Engineering and Architecture, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710129, China
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6
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Tauber F, Desmulliez M, Piccin O, Stokes AA. Perspective for soft robotics: the field's past and future. BIOINSPIRATION & BIOMIMETICS 2023; 18:035001. [PMID: 36764003 DOI: 10.1088/1748-3190/acbb48] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Since its beginnings in the 1960s, soft robotics has been a steadily growing field that has enjoyed recent growth with the advent of rapid prototyping and the provision of new flexible materials. These two innovations have enabled the development of fully flexible and untethered soft robotic systems. The integration of novel sensors enabled by new manufacturing processes and materials shows promise for enabling the production of soft systems with 'embodied intelligence'. Here, four experts present their perspectives for the future of the field of soft robotics based on these past innovations. Their focus is on finding answers to the questions of: how to manufacture soft robots, and on how soft robots can sense, move, and think. We highlight industrial production techniques, which are unused to date for manufacturing soft robots. They discuss how novel tactile sensors for soft robots could be created to enable better interaction of the soft robot with the environment. In conclusion this article highlights how embodied intelligence in soft robots could be used to make soft robots think and to make systems that can compute, autonomously, from sensory inputs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Falk Tauber
- Plant Biomechanics Group (PBG) Freiburg, Botanic Garden of the University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence livMatS @ FIT-Freiburg Center for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired Technologies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Marc Desmulliez
- Research Institute of Sensors, Signals and Systems (ISSS), School of Engineering & Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Olivier Piccin
- ICube-INSA Strasbourg, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Adam A Stokes
- School of Engineering, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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7
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Tauber FJ, Slesarenko V. Early career scientists converse on the future of soft robotics. Front Robot AI 2023; 10:1129827. [PMID: 36909362 PMCID: PMC9994530 DOI: 10.3389/frobt.2023.1129827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
During the recent decade, we have witnessed an extraordinary flourishing of soft robotics. Rekindled interest in soft robots is partially associated with the advances in manufacturing techniques that enable the fabrication of sophisticated multi-material robotic bodies with dimensions ranging across multiple length scales. In recent manuscripts, a reader might find peculiar-looking soft robots capable of grasping, walking, or swimming. However, the growth in publication numbers does not always reflect the real progress in the field since many manuscripts employ very similar ideas and just tweak soft body geometries. Therefore, we unreservedly agree with the sentiment that future research must move beyond "soft for soft's sake." Soft robotics is an undoubtedly fascinating field, but it requires a critical assessment of the limitations and challenges, enabling us to spotlight the areas and directions where soft robots will have the best leverage over their traditional counterparts. In this perspective paper, we discuss the current state of robotic research related to such important aspects as energy autonomy, electronic-free logic, and sustainability. The goal is to critically look at perspectives of soft robotics from two opposite points of view provided by early career researchers and highlight the most promising future direction, that is, in our opinion, the employment of soft robotic technologies for soft bio-inspired artificial organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Falk J Tauber
- Cluster of Excellence livMatS, FIT-Freiburg Center for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired Technologies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany.,Plant Biomechanics Group (PBG) Freiburg, Botanic Garden of the University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Viacheslav Slesarenko
- Cluster of Excellence livMatS, FIT-Freiburg Center for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired Technologies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
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8
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Meder F, Baytekin B, Del Dottore E, Meroz Y, Tauber F, Walker I, Mazzolai B. A perspective on plant robotics: from bioinspiration to hybrid systems. BIOINSPIRATION & BIOMIMETICS 2022; 18:015006. [PMID: 36351300 DOI: 10.1088/1748-3190/aca198] [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: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
As miscellaneous as the Plant Kingdom is, correspondingly diverse are the opportunities for taking inspiration from plants for innovations in science and engineering. Especially in robotics, properties like growth, adaptation to environments, ingenious materials, sustainability, and energy-effectiveness of plants provide an extremely rich source of inspiration to develop new technologies-and many of them are still in the beginning of being discovered. In the last decade, researchers have begun to reproduce complex plant functions leading to functionality that goes far beyond conventional robotics and this includes sustainability, resource saving, and eco-friendliness. This perspective drawn by specialists in different related disciplines provides a snapshot from the last decade of research in the field and draws conclusions on the current challenges, unanswered questions on plant functions, plant-inspired robots, bioinspired materials, and plant-hybrid systems looking ahead to the future of these research fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Meder
- Bioinspired Soft Robotics, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - Bilge Baytekin
- Department of Chemistry and UNAM National Nanotechnology Research Center, Bilkent University, Ankara, Turkey
| | | | - Yasmine Meroz
- School of Plant Sciences and Food Security, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Falk Tauber
- Plant Biomechanics Group (PBG) Freiburg, Botanic Garden of the University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence livMatS @ FIT-Freiburg Center for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired Technologies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Ian Walker
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, United States of America
| | - Barbara Mazzolai
- Bioinspired Soft Robotics, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
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9
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Durak GM, Thierer R, Sachse R, Bischoff M, Speck T, Poppinga S. Smooth or with a Snap! Biomechanics of Trap Reopening in the Venus Flytrap (Dionaea muscipula). ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2201362. [PMID: 35642470 PMCID: PMC9353449 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202201362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 04/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Fast snapping in the carnivorous Venus flytrap (Dionaea muscipula) involves trap lobe bending and abrupt curvature inversion (snap-buckling), but how do these traps reopen? Here, the trap reopening mechanics in two different D. muscipula clones, producing normal-sized (N traps, max. ≈3 cm in length) and large traps (L traps, max. ≈4.5 cm in length) are investigated. Time-lapse experiments reveal that both N and L traps can reopen by smooth and continuous outward lobe bending, but only L traps can undergo smooth bending followed by a much faster snap-through of the lobes. Additionally, L traps can reopen asynchronously, with one of the lobes moving before the other. This study challenges the current consensus on trap reopening, which describes it as a slow, smooth process driven by hydraulics and cell growth and/or expansion. Based on the results gained via three-dimensional digital image correlation (3D-DIC), morphological and mechanical investigations, the differences in trap reopening are proposed to stem from a combination of size and slenderness of individual traps. This study elucidates trap reopening processes in the (in)famous Dionaea snap traps - unique shape-shifting structures of great interest for plant biomechanics, functional morphology, and applications in biomimetics, i.e., soft robotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grażyna M. Durak
- Botanical Garden, Plant Biomechanics GroupUniversity of FreiburgFreiburg im Breisgau79085Germany
| | - Rebecca Thierer
- Institute for Structural MechanicsUniversity of StuttgartStuttgart70550Germany
| | - Renate Sachse
- TUM School of Engineering and DesignDepartment of Engineering Physics and ComputationTechnical University of MunichGarching b. München85748Germany
| | - Manfred Bischoff
- Institute for Structural MechanicsUniversity of StuttgartStuttgart70550Germany
| | - Thomas Speck
- Botanical Garden, Plant Biomechanics GroupUniversity of FreiburgFreiburg im Breisgau79085Germany
- Cluster of Excellence livMatS @ FIT – Freiburg Center for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired TechnologiesUniversity of FreiburgFreiburg im Breisgau79110Germany
| | - Simon Poppinga
- Botanical Garden, Plant Biomechanics GroupUniversity of FreiburgFreiburg im Breisgau79085Germany
- Cluster of Excellence livMatS @ FIT – Freiburg Center for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired TechnologiesUniversity of FreiburgFreiburg im Breisgau79110Germany
- Department of BiologyTechnical University of DarmstadtBotanical GardenDarmstadt64287Germany
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10
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Novel Motion Sequences in Plant-Inspired Robotics: Combining Inspirations from Snap-Trapping in Two Plant Species into an Artificial Venus Flytrap Demonstrator. Biomimetics (Basel) 2022; 7:biomimetics7030099. [PMID: 35892370 PMCID: PMC9330566 DOI: 10.3390/biomimetics7030099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The field of plant-inspired robotics is based on principles underlying the movements and attachment and adaptability strategies of plants, which together with their materials systems serve as concept generators. The transference of the functions and underlying structural principles of plants thus enables the development of novel life-like technical materials systems. For example, principles involved in the hinge-less movements of carnivorous snap-trap plants and climbing plants can be used in technical applications. A combination of the snap-trap motion of two plant species (Aldrovanda vesiculosa and Dionaea muscipula) has led to the creation of a novel motion sequence for plant-inspired robotics in an artificial Venus flytrap system, the Venus Flyflap. The novel motion pattern of Venus Flyflap lobes has been characterized by using four state-of-the-art actuation systems. A kinematic analysis of the individual phases of the new motion cycle has been performed by utilizing precise pneumatic actuation. Contactless magnetic actuation augments lobe motion into energy-efficient resonance-like oscillatory motion. The use of environmentally driven actuator materials has allowed autonomous motion generation via changes in environmental conditions. Measurement of the energy required for the differently actuated movements has shown that the Venus Flyflap is not only faster than the biological models in its closing movement, but also requires less energy in certain cases for the execution of this movement.
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11
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Le Ferrand H, Riley KS, Arrieta AF. Plant-inspired multi-stimuli and multi-temporal morphing composites. BIOINSPIRATION & BIOMIMETICS 2022; 17:046002. [PMID: 35349991 DOI: 10.1088/1748-3190/ac61ea] [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: 01/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Plants are inspiring models for adaptive, morphing systems. In addition to their shape complexity, they can respond to multiple stimuli and exhibit both fast and slow motion. We attempt to recreate these capabilities in synthetic structures, proposing a fabrication and design scheme for multi-stimuli and multi-temporal responsive plant-inspired composites. We leverage a hierarchical, spatially tailored microstructural and compositional scheme to enable both fast morphing through bistability and slow morphing through diffusion processes. The composites consisted of a hydrogel layer made of gelatine and an architected particle-reinforced epoxy bilayer. Using magnetic fields to achieve spatially distributed orientations of magnetically responsive platelets in each epoxy layer, complex bilayer architectural patterns in various geometries were realised. This feature enabled the study of plant-inspired complex designs,viafinite element analysis and experiments. We present the design and fabrication strategy utilizing the material properties of the composites. The deformations and temporal responses of the resulting composites are analysed using digital image correlation. Finally, we model and experimentally demonstrate plant-inspired composite shells whose stable shapes closely mimic those of the Venus flytrap, while maintaining the multi-stimuli and multi-temporal responses of the materials. The key to achieving this is to tune the local in-plane orientations of the reinforcing particles in the bilayer shapes, to induce distributed in-plane mechanical properties and shrinkage. How these particles should be distributed is determined using finite element modelling. The work presented in this study can be applied to autonomous applications such as robotic systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hortense Le Ferrand
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, 639798, Singapore
| | - Katherine S Riley
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Purdue University, 585 Purdue Mall, West Lafayette, IN 47907, United States of America
| | - Andres F Arrieta
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Purdue University, 585 Purdue Mall, West Lafayette, IN 47907, United States of America
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12
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Li CY, Zheng SY, Hao XP, Hong W, Zheng Q, Wu ZL. Spontaneous and rapid electro-actuated snapping of constrained polyelectrolyte hydrogels. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabm9608. [PMID: 35417235 PMCID: PMC9007498 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abm9608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Venus flytrap and bladderwort, capable of rapid predation through a snapping transition, have inspired various designs of soft actuators and robots with fast actions. These designs, in contrast to their natural counterparts, often require a direct force or pressurization. Here, we report a bistable domal hydrogel structure capable of spontaneous and reversible snapping under an electric field. Unlike a mechanical force, the electric field does not drive the gel directly. Instead, it redistributes mobile ions that direct the migration of water molecules and bends the polyelectrolyte hydrogel. Subject to constraint from surrounding neutral gel, the elastic energy accumulates until suddenly released by snapping, just like the process in natural organisms. Several proof-of-concept examples, including an optical switch, a speedy catcher, and a pulse pump, are designed to demonstrate the versatile functionalities of this unit capable of articulate motion. This work should bring opportunities to devise soft robotics, biomedical devices, etc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Yu Li
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Si Yu Zheng
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Xing Peng Hao
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Wei Hong
- Department of Mechanics and Aerospace Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Qiang Zheng
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Zi Liang Wu
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
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13
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Böhm J, Scherzer S. Signaling and transport processes related to the carnivorous lifestyle of plants living on nutrient-poor soil. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 187:2017-2031. [PMID: 35235668 PMCID: PMC8890503 DOI: 10.1093/plphys/kiab297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
In Eukaryotes, long-distance and rapid signal transmission is required in order to be able to react fast and flexibly to external stimuli. This long-distance signal transmission cannot take place by diffusion of signal molecules from the site of perception to the target tissue, as their speed is insufficient. Therefore, for adequate stimulus transmission, plants as well as animals make use of electrical signal transmission, as this can quickly cover long distances. This update summarises the most important advances in plant electrical signal transduction with a focus on the carnivorous Venus flytrap. It highlights the different types of electrical signals, examines their underlying ion fluxes and summarises the carnivorous processes downstream of the electrical signals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Böhm
- Institute for Molecular Plant Physiology and Biophysics, University of Würzburg, 97082 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Sönke Scherzer
- Institute for Molecular Plant Physiology and Biophysics, University of Würzburg, 97082 Würzburg, Germany
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14
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Bessler S, Hess K, Weigt H, von Ramin M. Biological transformation-battery protection inspired by wound healing. BIOINSPIRATION & BIOMIMETICS 2021; 16:056008. [PMID: 34233318 DOI: 10.1088/1748-3190/ac1249] [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: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
One of the major challenges for electric vehicle safety and mobility is the development of battery protection mechanisms that are able to cope with irregular and unpredictable heating of the battery unit. Biological protection mechanisms are considered to be one of the most effective and resilient mechanisms due to their ability to react dynamically and adaptively to unpredictable disturbances. Consequently, biological systems can be viewed as models for high resiliency that provide inspiration for tackling issues such as excessive resource consumption or low technical resilience. This study demonstrates the improvement of the safety of an electric vehicle battery system inspired by wound healing and pain reflex response, which are among the most important protective mechanisms of the human body system. In particular, the individual mechanisms are systematically characterized, their underlying principles identified and transferred to a simulated battery system using a novel attribute-based method. As a result, the detection of irregular heating is improved and cooling of the battery system is more efficient. Further, this example can be used to explain how protective mechanisms that contribute to the resilience of biological systems can be abstracted and transferred to different technical systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Bessler
- Fraunhofer Institute for High-Speed Dynamics, Ernst-Mach-Institut, EMI, Am Klingelberg 1, 79588 Efringen-Kirchen, Germany
| | - Katharina Hess
- Fraunhofer Institute for High-Speed Dynamics, Ernst-Mach-Institut, EMI, Am Klingelberg 1, 79588 Efringen-Kirchen, Germany
| | - Henning Weigt
- Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicology and Experimental Medicine, Nikolai-Fuchs-Straße 1, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Malte von Ramin
- Fraunhofer Institute for High-Speed Dynamics, Ernst-Mach-Institut, EMI, Am Klingelberg 1, 79588 Efringen-Kirchen, Germany
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Mazzolai B, Tramacere F, Fiorello I, Margheri L. The Bio-Engineering Approach for Plant Investigations and Growing Robots. A Mini-Review. Front Robot AI 2020; 7:573014. [PMID: 33501333 PMCID: PMC7806088 DOI: 10.3389/frobt.2020.573014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been 10 years since the publication of the first article looking at plants as a biomechatronic system and as model for robotics. Now, roboticists have started to look at plants differently and consider them as a model in the field of bioinspired robotics. Despite plants have been seen traditionally as passive entities, in reality they are able to grow, move, sense, and communicate. These features make plants an exceptional example of morphological computation - with probably the highest level of adaptability among all living beings. They are a unique model to design robots that can act in- and adapt to- unstructured, extreme, and dynamically changing environments exposed to sudden or long-term events. Although plant-inspired robotics is still a relatively new field, it has triggered the concept of growing robotics: an emerging area in which systems are designed to create their own body, adapt their morphology, and explore different environments. There is a reciprocal interest between biology and robotics: plants represent an excellent source of inspiration for achieving new robotic abilities, and engineering tools can be used to reveal new biological information. This way, a bidirectional biology-robotics strategy provides mutual benefits for both disciplines. This mini-review offers a brief overview of the fundamental aspects related to a bioengineering approach in plant-inspired robotics. It analyses the works in which both biological and engineering aspects have been investigated, and highlights the key elements of plants that have been milestones in the pioneering field of growing robots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Mazzolai
- Center for Micro-BioRobotics, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Pontedera, Italy
| | - Francesca Tramacere
- Center for Micro-BioRobotics, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Pontedera, Italy
| | - Isabella Fiorello
- Center for Micro-BioRobotics, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Pontedera, Italy
- The BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Laura Margheri
- Center for Micro-BioRobotics, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Pontedera, Italy
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