Adaptive and Versatile Soft Robotic Manipulation

Current Trends in Soft Robotic Manipulation

The field of soft robotic manipulation is witnessing a shift towards more adaptive and versatile systems capable of handling a wide range of objects, including thin deformable materials and heterogeneous items. Recent advancements emphasize the integration of multi-sensory feedback and passive compliance to enhance dexterity and robustness in manipulation tasks. Notably, there is a growing focus on dynamic in-hand manipulation, where soft robotic systems are being trained to perform high-speed tasks traditionally reserved for rigid robots. This trend underscores the potential for soft robotics to bridge the gap between safe, compliant interactions and high-speed, dynamic operations. Additionally, the development of manipulation surfaces with reduced actuator density is emerging as a promising approach to manage heterogeneous objects efficiently, addressing the limitations of both gripper-based and surface-based methods.

Noteworthy Developments

  • A system that learns dynamic in-hand manipulation through real-world trial-and-error, achieving high success rates across various objects.
  • A multi-sensory integrated soft hand for thin deformable object manipulation, demonstrating enhanced dexterity and adaptability.
  • A soft manipulation surface with reduced actuator density, offering a cost-effective solution for handling heterogeneous objects.

Sources

Soft Robotic Dynamic In-Hand Pen Spinning

Learning Time-Optimal and Speed-Adjustable Tactile In-Hand Manipulation

Learning thin deformable object manipulation with a multi-sensory integrated soft hand

Soft Manipulation Surface With Reduced Actuator Density For Heterogeneous Object Manipulation

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