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A Versatile Dual-Responsive Shape-Memory Gripper via Additive Manufacturing Toward High-Performance Cross-Scale
Sizhu Wu1,2,3, Jinpeng Fang1, Xueli Gao1
1School of Instrument Science and Opto-Electronics Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, 230009, China.
Small (Weinheim an Der Bergstrasse, Germany)
|January 24, 2025
Summary
This study introduces a novel dual-responsive shape-memory gripper capable of manipulating objects across scales. This soft robotics innovation enables precise handling of micro- to centimeter-sized items for diverse applications.
Area of Science:
- Soft robotics
- Materials science
- Biomedical engineering
Background:
- Smart grippers are crucial for medical, biomedical, and industrial applications.
- Current grippers struggle with manipulating objects across vastly different scales (micrometers to centimeters).
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an all-in-one intelligent gripper capable of cross-scale object manipulation.
- To introduce a novel magnet/light dual-responsive shape-memory gripper (DR-SMG).
Main Methods:
- Hybridization of Fe-nanoparticles with shape-memory polymers to create the DR-SMG.
- Utilizing near-infrared-ray (NIR) and a magnetic field for temporary state changes (opening).
- Leveraging the shape-memory effect for permanent state changes (closing) upon NIR application.
Main Results:
- The DR-SMG successfully switches between open and closed states using combined magnetic and light stimuli.
- Demonstrated grasping and releasing of diverse cross-scale objects (micrometers to centimeters).
- Enabled spatial delivery of chemical droplets and conductive liquid metals for lab-on-chip and electrical switch applications.
Conclusions:
- The developed DR-SMG offers versatile cross-scale manipulation capabilities.
- This innovation advances soft robotics and intelligent gripper technology.
- Potential applications include lab-on-chip systems and micro-assembly.
