Anatomy

Control engineering

Nanotechnology

Pure mathematics

Mathematics

Biology

Engineering

Artificial intelligence

Biomimetics

Soft robotics

Materials science

Computer science

Field (mathematics)

Soft materials

Robotics

Terrestrial locomotion

Mechanical engineering

Robot

Nature

Conventionally, engineers have employed rigid materials to fabricate precise, predictable robotic systems, which are easily modelled as rigid members connected at discrete joints. Natural systems, however, often match or exceed the performance of robotic systems with deformable bodies. Cephalopods, for example, achieve amazing feats of manipulation and locomotion without a skeleton; even vertebrates such as humans achieve dynamic gaits by storing elastic energy in their compliant bones and soft tissues. Inspired by nature, engineers have begun to explore the design and control of soft-bodied robots composed of compliant materials. This Review discusses recent developments in the emerging field of soft robotics.

Design, fabrication and control of soft robots