Computational design of ultra-robust strain sensors for soft robot perception and autonomy.

ABSTRACT: Compliant strain sensors are crucial for soft robots' perception and autonomy. However, their deformable bodies and dynamic actuation pose challenges in predictive sensor manufacturing and long-term robustness. This necessitates accurate sensor modelling and well-controlled sensor structural changes under strain. Here, we present a computational sensor design featuring a programmed crack array within micro-crumples strategy. By controlling the user-defined structure, the sensing performance becomes highly tunable and can be accurately modelled by physical models. Moreover, they maintain robust responsiveness under various demanding conditions including noise interruptions (50% strain), intermittent cyclic loadings (100,000 cycles), and dynamic frequencies (0-23 Hz), satisfying soft robots of diverse scaling from macro to micro. Finally, machine intelligence is applied to a sensor-integrated origami robot, enabling robotic trajectory prediction (<4% error) and topographical altitude awareness (<10% error). This strategy holds promise for advancing soft robotic capabilities in exploration, rescue operations, and swarming behaviors in complex environments.

SUBMITTER: Yang H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10883982 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature