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Robotic Tentacles with Three‐Dimensional Mobility Based on Flexible Elastomers
Author(s) -
Martinez Ramses V.,
Branch Jamie L.,
Fish Carina R.,
Jin Lihua,
Shepherd Robert F.,
Nunes Rui M. D.,
Suo Zhigang,
Whitesides George M.
Publication year - 2013
Publication title -
advanced materials
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 10.707
H-Index - 527
eISSN - 1521-4095
pISSN - 0935-9648
DOI - 10.1002/adma.201203002
Subject(s) - elastomer , soft robotics , materials science , actuator , molding (decorative) , embedding , pneumatic actuator , soft lithography , composite material , mechanical engineering , computer science , artificial intelligence , engineering , fabrication , medicine , alternative medicine , pathology
Soft robotic tentacles that move in three dimensions upon pressurization are fabricated by composing flexible elastomers with different tensile strengths using soft lithographic molding. These actuators are able to grip complex shapes and manipulate delicate objects. Embedding functional components into these actuators (for example, a needle for delivering fluid, a video camera, and a suction cup) extends their capabilities.