SOFT ROBOTICS FOR MEDICAL AND INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS: MATERIALS, ACTUATION TECHNOLOGIES, AND EMERGING TRENDS

Abstract

Soft robotics is an emerging field of robotics that focuses on designing robots using compliant and flexible materials inspired by biological systems. Unlike traditional rigid robots, soft robots exhibit enhanced adaptability, safety, and dexterity, making them suitable for human-centric environments and delicate manipulation tasks. This research article investigates the technological foundations, materials, actuation mechanisms, and applications of soft robotics in medical and industrial domains. The study reviews recent advances in soft robotic actuators, sensors, and control systems, highlighting their potential for minimally invasive surgery, rehabilitation devices, wearable robotics, and industrial manipulation systems. A conceptual framework for soft robotic system architecture is proposed, integrating sensing, actuation, and control modules. Comparative analysis demonstrates that soft robots significantly improve safety and adaptability compared with rigid robotic systems, particularly in environments requiring human-robot interaction. Emerging trends such as biohybrid robotics, soft electronic skin, and additive manufacturing are transforming the design and deployment of soft robotic systems. However, challenges related to control complexity, durability, and energy efficiency remain significant. Future research should focus on advanced materials, integrated sensing systems, and intelligent control algorithms to enhance the functionality and scalability of soft robotics. This study concludes that soft robotics has the potential to revolutionize both healthcare technologies and industrial automation by enabling safe, adaptive, and efficient robotic systems.