Affiliation:
1. State Key Laboratory of Robotics Shenyang Institute of Automation Chinese Academy of Sciences Shenyang 110016 China
2. Institutes for Robotics and Intelligent Manufacturing Chinese Academy of Sciences Shenyang 110169 China
3. University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 100049 China
4. Department of Mechanical Engineering City University of Hong Kong Hong Kong 999077 China
Abstract
AbstractSoft actuators have assumed vital roles in a diverse number of research and application fields, driving innovation and transformative advancements. Using 3D molding of smart materials and combining these materials through structural design strategies, a single soft actuator can achieve multiple functions. However, it is still challenging to realize soft actuators that possess high environmental adaptability while capable of different tasks. Here, the response threshold of a soft actuator is modulated by precisely tuning the ratio of stimulus‐responsive groups in hydrogels. By combining a heterogeneous bilayer membrane structure and in situ multimaterial printing, the obtained soft actuator deformed in response to changes in the surrounding medium. The response medium is suitable for both biotic and abiotic environments, and the response rate is fast. By changing the surrounding medium, the precise capture, manipulation, and release of micron‐sized particles of different diameters in 3D are realized. In addition, static capture of a single red blood cell is realized using biologically responsive medium changes. Finally, the experimental results are well predicted using finite element analysis. It is believed that with further optimization of the structure size and autonomous navigation platform, the proposed soft microactuator has significant potential to function as an easy‐to‐manipulate multifunctional robot.
Funder
National Natural Science Foundation of China
National Key Research and Development Program of China
China Postdoctoral Science Foundation