Researchers from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) in Massachusetts are developing an origami-inspired soft robotic arm that could reach, hold, lift, and carry objects, which sees potential use for people in wheelchairs.
The WPI research team, led by Professor Cagdas Onal, alongside Berk Calli and Loris Fichera, received over a million dollars in donations from the National Science Foundation, which will fund a four-year project to develop a framework for the design, modeling, and control of ‘soft continuum’ robotic arms that will be more flexible than traditional robotic arm.
Unlike the traditional rigid robotic arms, their research would involve a lightweight plastic material with an origami-inspired design, allowing the “soft” robotic arm to shrink, expand, and bend. The design and novel fabrication methods for modules would also address the weaknesses of the material.
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The researchers aim to develop strong, stiff, and twist-resistant modules by folding flat sheets of clear plastic into flexible, tube-shaped structures, ensuring they remain lightweight.
“The basic scientific discoveries we are making in this research address real-world challenges for people who use wheelchairs and need devices that will help them grab out-of-reach objects,” said Cagdas Onal.
Source: IMECHE