3D Printed Objects and Components Enabling Next Generation of True Soft Robotics

Abstract

Soft robotics in the content of true softness, with regards to components, parts, or the complete robot, are the next step in the development of tools for humans, especially when used in close proximity. Considering the fact that robots are a multilevel extension of the human body, and that their main purpose should be to help humans perform tasks, then focusing on the development of softmaterials, and product design options allowing for flexibility and softness by design is necessary, for the next development level of the tool “robot”. Using additive manufacturing in combination with new materials, design methods, and biomimicry / biomimetics is a key in that development, but also very challenging due to the multi-level complexity. An understanding of the real world tasks required to be performed, and abstracting this information into new applications and robotic designs in the combination mentioned above, is shown in the chapter, functioning as a basis and overview of the state-of-the-art.