SOFT ROBOTICS: A Bio-Inspired Revolution

Abstract

Robots are characterized as soft or hard based on the material used. While hard robots are made up of materials like steel hence have high stiffness to prevent deformation and have actuators placed at the joint's soft robots, on the other hand, soft robots have soft deformable bodies made up of unconventional materials and provide a large degree of freedom. In this paper we focus on the different methods used to implement a soft robot. The main focus is laid on the fact that soft robots draw inspiration from bio-systems the classic example of an octopus arm is explained in brief. The flexibility and varying degrees of freedom as seen in animals and plants (biological systems) are brought about by the use of smart materials, soft actuators and sensors. This paper provides a brief overview of the various actuators and materials that are available, the methods of implementing them and their advantages and disadvantages. In conclusion we provide methods that are best suited for the implementation of a soft robot based on available reports and studies conducted on them. The main focus of a soft robot is to provide good contact between human and machine, wearable technology adaptability, easy handling and so on this can be achieved by the proper integration of the right materials and actuators.