Bio-inspired multimodal soft grippers: a review.

Area of Science:

• Robotics and Biomimetics
• Materials Science and Engineering

Background:

• Organisms utilize diverse grasping mechanisms for survival and function.
• Biological structures like octopus arms and elephant trunks inspire advanced robotic grippers.
• Multimodal soft grippers require adaptation to dynamic environments for optimal performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review bio-inspired strategies for advancing multimodal soft grippers.
• To bridge the gap in comprehensive literature on biomimetic approaches in gripper design.
• To highlight how nature's designs can enhance gripper functionality and adaptability.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of bio-inspired multimodal soft grippers.
• Analysis of biomimetic strategies in grasping mechanisms, structural design, and materials.
• Focus on coupling strategies, integration methods, and application scenarios.

Main Results:

• Bio-inspired designs offer significant potential for enhancing multimodal soft gripper performance.
• Adaptation strategies derived from nature improve gripper functionality in dynamic conditions.
• Biomimetic approaches provide innovative solutions for gripper design and application.

Conclusions:

• Biomimetic strategies are crucial for the advancement of multimodal soft grippers.
• Further research into nature's designs can unlock new capabilities for robotic grippers.
• Nature-inspired innovation is key to overcoming current challenges in soft gripper technology.