APPARATUS, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR MODULAR SOFT ROBOTS

Authors

Stephen A. Morin, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow
Sen Wai Kwok, Watertown, MA
Robert F. Shepherd, Brooktondale, NY
George M. Whitesides, Newton, MA

Document Type

Article

Date of this Version

2015

Citation

Pub. No.: US 2015/0217459 A1

Comments

Pub. Date: Aug. 6, 2015

Appl. No.: 14/421,429

Abstract

Apparatus, Systems, and methods for providing modular soft robots are disclosed. In particular, the disclosed modular soft robot can include a flexible actuator having a plurality of molded flexible units. Each molded flexible unit can include a mechanical connector configured to provide a physical coupling to another molded flexible unit, and the plurality of molded flexible units are arranged to form an embedded fluidic channel. The modular soft robot can also include an inlet coupled to the embedded fluidic channel, where the inlet is configured to receive pressurized or depressurized fluid to inflate or deflate a portion of the flexible actuator, thereby causing an actuation of the flexible actuator.