Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a novel soft robot inspired by caterpillar movement, employing silver nanowires and heat for precise control. This caterpillar-bot can maneuver forward, backward, and navigate tight spaces, mimicking the way real caterpillars bend their bodies. Its motion is facilitated by a unique arrangement of silver nanowires embedded in a two-layer polymer system, where the bottom layer contracts and the top layer expands when heated. By controlling the electric current applied to different sections of the nanowire pattern, users can dictate which parts of the robot bend and to what extent.
The study highlights the ability to optimize movement cycles, allowing the "muscles" of the polymer to relax and perform efficient contractions. This advancement enables the robot to slip through small openings and enhances its overall maneuverability. Scientists believe this energy-efficient approach has potential applications in fields like search-and-rescue missions. The research, published in Science Advances, received funding from the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health. The work represents a significant step in soft robotics, particularly in achieving controlled bi-directional movement.
