5Ws of Film-Balloon Soft Robots

WHO

Researchers from the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), the National University of Singapore (NUS), and Queensland University of Technology (QUT) have made groundbreaking advancements in the field of soft robotics by developing film-balloon (FiBa) soft robots.

WHAT

These innovative robots, designed by a team led by Dr. Terry Ching and Corresponding Author Professor Michinao Hashimoto, introduce a novel fabrication approach that enables lightweight, untethered operation with advanced biomimetic locomotion capabilities. FiBa modules combine transversely curved polymer thin films with three-dimensional printed pneumatic balloons. This combination significantly reduces the weight of soft actuators, enabling untethered operations. The soft robots assembled using the FiBa modules can replicate various natural movements, including turtle-inspired crawling, inchworm-inspired climbing, bat-inspired perching, and ladybug-inspired flying. The development of FiBa modules addresses one of the major challenges in the field of soft robotics: untethering robots from electrical or pneumatic power sources. By significantly reducing the weight of soft actuators, the researchers have enabled the integration of essential components such as pumps, valves, batteries, and control boards, paving the way for fully autonomous soft robots.

WHERE

Singapore University of Technology and Design, the National University of Singapore, and Queensland University of Technology.

WHY

The lightweight design of FiBa modules increases energy efficiency and operational periods, which is advantageous for space exploration and search and rescue operations.

WHEN

This breakthrough enhances the operational capabilities and potential applications of soft robots, paving the way for future of soft robotics.

For more information, contact Melissa Koh at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ; +65-649-98742.

---