Soft Robotics & Bio-Inspired Actuators

Abstract

ABSTRACT Soft robotics and bio-inspired actuators are rapidly growing areas that aim to mimic living organisms’ flexibility and adaptive properties. Unlike traditional rigid robotics, soft robotics employs compliant materials such as elastomers, gels, and smart polymers to generate motion and force. Bio-inspired actuators take cues from nature—muscle tissues, octopus arms, plant movements—to overcome limitations in adaptability, safety, and dexterity. This review summarizes the current state of research in soft robotics and bio-inspired actuation, highlighting key material technologies, actuation mechanisms, control strategies, and applications in sectors such as medicine, manufacturing, and exploration. Challenges and future directions are discussed, especially in material fatigue, precise control, and large-scale implementation. The paper concludes with critical insights into how multi-disciplinary approaches can accelerate real-world applications of soft robotic systems.

KEYWORDS: Soft robotics, bio-inspired actuators, compliant materials, adaptive systems, actuation mechanisms, soft sensors, soft manipulation.