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Shape morphing of soft robotics by pneumatic torsion strip braiding

Author

Listed:
  • Changchun Wu

    (The University of Hong Kong)

  • Hao Liu

    (The University of Hong Kong)

  • Senyuan Lin

    (The University of Hong Kong)

  • James Lam

    (The University of Hong Kong)

  • Ning Xi

    (The University of Hong Kong)

  • Yonghua Chen

    (The University of Hong Kong)

Abstract

Shape morphing technologies are significant in soft robotic applications. To this end, we introduce a new shape morphing approach using pneumatic torsion strips, inspired by the shape of a Möbius strip. A pneumatic torsion strip is simply formed by bending and twisting a ribbon of bladder. When locating a pneumatic torsion strip on a braided soft body, its intrinsic elastic energy always tends to bend the soft body. Meanwhile, its elastic energy is adjustable and correlated with the geometry and internal-pressure dependent material properties. Compared with common strain-mismatch based morphing methods, pneumatic torsion strips directly exert bending torque to the soft body without generating in-plane strain and affecting rigidity. As such, the local bending of a soft body over a large curvature range at almost any position can be realized through pneumatic torsion strips. A mathematical model describing the geometry and elastic energy of a pneumatic torsion strip is also established to explain its basic shape morphing mechanism. Finally, we provide several case studies to illustrate their performance and advantages in practical shape morphing applications, such as a 2 kg meter-scale transformable carpet that can curl like plant tendrils.

Suggested Citation

  • Changchun Wu & Hao Liu & Senyuan Lin & James Lam & Ning Xi & Yonghua Chen, 2025. "Shape morphing of soft robotics by pneumatic torsion strip braiding," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 16(1), pages 1-11, December.
  • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:16:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-025-59051-3
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-59051-3
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    References listed on IDEAS

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