Development of a Soft Robotic Squid

Presenter

Benjamin Kaye Weedon

Campus

UMass Amherst

Sponsor

Gina Olson, Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, UMass Amherst

Schedule

Session 2, 11:30 AM - 12:15 PM [Schedule by Time][Poster Grid for Time/Location]

Location

Poster Board A92, Campus Center Auditorium, Row 5 (A81-A100) [Poster Location Map]

Abstract

Soft robotics is revolutionizing the field of robotics by moving away from traditional rigid structures and embracing flexible, adaptable designs inspired by natural organisms. Among these sources of inspiration, the squid's remarkable jet propulsion is particularly noteworthy for its rapid and forceful movement. Despite significant progress in creating squid-inspired robots, none have yet incorporated a soft robotic actuator capable of controlling direction. This research project aims to address this gap by developing a maneuverable squid robot actuated by shape memory alloy (SMA) and twist and coil actuators (TaCs). The prototype features an expanding and contracting bell created using 2mm diameter fiberglass rods and an extremely thin silicone membrane. This unique design enables the bell to deform in a specific direction, giving the squid the ability to control the direction of its acceleration. Early testing has identified challenges in generating sufficient elastic energy for strong bursts of acceleration underwater, highlighting the intricate biomechanics involved in squid propulsion. The research has opened up multiple avenues for future development of the squid robot, including the exploration of novel materials and actuators to enhance underwater performance. By exploring innovative solutions to replicate the squid's unparalleled underwater mobility, this work significantly contributes to advancing the potential of soft robotics research.

Keywords

Soft Robotics, Biomimicry, Silicone, Underwater Exploration, Propolsion

Research Area

Engineering

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