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Inspired by nature, soft robotics promises to overcome traditional robots' limitations by using the flexibility and adaptability of living organisms to navigate complex environments. This field aims to replicate natural movements, such as the peristaltic motion of earthworms, applying them to robots to enhance locomotion and manipulation capabilities. Research focuses on developing prototypes inspired by biological mechanisms, with significant advances in design, actuation, and control, highlighting applications in challenging environments. Studies include the development of mobile robots with pneumatic actuation and models that mimic earthworm locomotion and exploring the use of friction for efficient movement. Soft robotics points to a future with more adaptable and efficient robots, promising innovations in inspection, exploration, and medicine, thanks to integrating new materials, actuators, and control algorithms.
Sant’Anna et al. (Fri,) studied this question.