Medical applications of bio-inspired soft robotics

Abstract

Bio-inspired soft robotics represents a transformative approach in medical technology, combining the adaptability and resilience of biological organisms with advanced robotic systems. These robots, constructed from compliant and flexible materials, offer unprecedented capabilities in navigating and interacting with the human body. This comprehensive review delves into the latest advancements and applications of bio-inspired soft robotics in medicine, highlighting their role in minimally invasive surgery, rehabilitation, prosthetics, targeted drug delivery, and diagnostic tools. The chapter outlines the design principles, actuation mechanisms, and sensing technologies that underpin these innovative devices, demonstrating their superiority over traditional rigid robots in terms of safety, precision, and efficacy. Furthermore, the chapter addresses the current challenges in the field, including material durability, control complexity, and regulatory hurdles, while also exploring future prospects and potential breakthroughs. By integrating interdisciplinary research from materials science, biology, and engineering, bio-inspired soft robotics is poised to revolutionize medical practice, offering new hope for improved patient outcomes and advanced therapeutic solutions.