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Four-Dimensional Printing of Stimuli-Responsive Hydrogel-Based Soft Robots
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4D Printing of Humidity-Driven Seed Inspired Soft Robots
Luca Cecchini1,2, Stefano Mariani1, Marilena Ronzan1
1Bioinspired Soft Robotics Laboratory, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, Genova, 16163, Italy.
Advanced Science (Weinheim, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany)
|February 1, 2023
Summary
Inspired by Geraniaceae seeds, scientists created a 4D printed soft robot that moves autonomously using humidity changes. This bio-inspired robot mimics natural seed movement and adaptability for soil exploration.
Area of Science:
- Robotics
- Materials Science
- Biomimetics
Background:
- Geraniaceae seeds exhibit autonomous movement in soil, driven by humidity changes.
- Their mobility stems from hierarchical structures in hygroscopic tissues, enabling humidity responsiveness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the structure and biomechanics of Pelargonium appendiculatum seeds.
- To develop a bio-inspired model for designing soft robots.
Main Methods:
- Investigated seed internal structure and biomechanics.
- Utilized 4D printing with biodegradable, hygroscopic polymers.
- Fabricated a seed-like soft robot mimicking natural specifications.
Main Results:
- The artificial seed replicates natural seed movement and performance.
- Achieved torque of ≈30 µN m and extensional force of ≈2.5 mN.
- Demonstrated lifting capacity of ≈100 times its own weight.
Conclusions:
- The 4D printed robot successfully mimics Geraniaceae seed locomotion.
- The artificial seed adapts its morphology for soil exploration, interacting with roughness and cracks.
- This bio-inspired approach offers a novel design for humidity-driven soft robots.
