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Updated: Jan 2, 2026
Four-Dimensional Printing of Stimuli-Responsive Hydrogel-Based Soft Robots
Published on: January 13, 2023
Multidimensional free shape-morphing flexible neuromorphic devices with regulation at arbitrary points.
Jiaqi Liu1,2, Chengpeng Jiang1,2, Qianbo Yu1,2
1Institute of Optoelectronic Thin Film Devices and Technology, Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Thin Film Devices and Technology of Tianjin, College of Electronic Information and Optical Engineering, National Institute for Advanced Materials, Nankai University, Tianjin, China.
Researchers developed a flexible device that mimics brain functions for computing and muscle movement. This bio-inspired electronic system integrates perception and action, paving the way for advanced soft robotics and flexible electronics.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Materials Science
- Robotics
Background:
- Biological neural systems exhibit seamless integration of perception and action.
- Current neuromorphic electronics face limitations due to physically separated designs, hindering coordination.
- Developing integrated systems for neural computing and actuation is a significant challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a flexible device capable of both neuromorphic computation and muscle actuation.
- To overcome the limitations of segregated designs in current neural-imitating electronics.
- To enable bio-inspired systems with integrated sensory and motor functions.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a flexible device with densely-packed, hydrophilic nanometer-sized channels.
- Utilizing silver nanowires for hydrated cation capture and storage, enabling synaptic functions.
- Demonstrating muscle actuation through collective device response to neuromuscular commands.
Main Results:
- The device successfully emulates synaptic functions for neural computing.
- The collective ensemble replicates muscle actuation in response to efferent neuromuscular commands.
- Demonstrated applications include a hazard detection-avoidance robot and multidimensional integration for shape programming and soft-bodied deformations.
Conclusions:
- The developed flexible device offers a novel approach to integrated neuromorphic computation and actuation.
- This technology advances the development of future flexible electronics and bio-inspired systems.
- The findings highlight the potential for creating sophisticated soft robots with coordinated motion capabilities.
