Intelligent sensory systems toward soft robotics

Abstract

Soft robots have gained significant attention owing to their intrinsically safe and elastic structure. However, merely ensuring safety at the material and structural levels is just the first step toward intelligent soft robots. The true potential lies in effectively integrating soft sensing technology into their construction. A humanlike sensory organ is crucial for establishing an effective connection between humans, robots, and their environment, enabling the exploration of unknown cues and facilitating interactive behaviors. In this review, we address the challenges of integrating sensory systems with soft robots, encompassing the design of complex sensing units and skins, handling large data volumes from various sources, and establishing suitable energy sources. We advocate a multidisciplinary approach to develop autonomous, intelligent soft robots that align with the unique properties of softness. Finally, we explore how sensory-equipped soft robots excel in environmental recognition and proprioceptive processes, enabling them to tackle complex challenges in diverse application scenarios.