Soft Robotic Sensing Material
KAIST researchers develop a Venus flytrap-inspired soft material that senses and grasps objects.
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KAIST researchers have developed Ionograsper, a soft robotic material inspired by the Venus flytrap that combines sensing and movement in a single polymer. When a charged object approaches, ions in the material rearrange to produce an electrical signal, allowing it to detect objects without contact; exposure to ultraviolet light then makes it bend and grasp them. Made by combining a light-responsive molecule with a moisture-absorbing polymer, the material can hold its grasp for more than 10 minutes after the light is switched off. The approach could simplify soft robots by reducing the need for separate sensors, actuators and wiring, though researchers say further work is needed to improve its detection range, speed and durability.
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The research was published online on September 14 as a cover paper in the journal Advanced Materials; Yongmin Kim of Jeonbuk National University was the first author.
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The grasping motion comes from azobenzene changing its molecular structure under UV light, which causes moisture to leave one side of the material and makes it bend.
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Researchers also plan to adapt the material to operate under visible or near-infrared light, rather than relying on ultraviolet light.
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