Soft Robotic Gloves Could Help People With Hand Injuries Feel And Hold Objects
Scientists have managed to knit soft robotic wearables that may be used as assistive tools for people with disabilities. Designed by scientists from MIT's Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL), the new "PneuAct" depends on computers and a peculiar knitting process to digitally fabricate soft pneumatic actuators, an integral part of soft robotic systems.
Soft robots are systems created from materials that have mechanical properties similar to those of living tissues. These robots are intrinsically considered more innovative than conventional robots.
According to CSAIL researchers, the "PneuAct uses a machine knitting process ¡ª not dissimilar to your grandma's plastic needle knitting ¡ª but this machine operates autonomously," Endgadget reported.
How does PneuAct work?
The designer is required to specify the stitch and patterns of sensor designs in software to essentially dictate how movements of the soft robot will function. Once the knitting machine generates the textile piece, it is attached to a rubber silicone tube to complete the actuator. The software also shows how each design will function to assess whether it will achieve its intended purpose or not.
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These actuators are able to feel and interact with whatever they grab. The team has developed a few prototypes based on various concepts - an interactive robot, and assistive glove, and more. According to the video above, a wearer applies no pressure on the wearables.
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Its creators hope that the glove would help people with finger or hand injuries to aid the movement of finger muscles, helping them feel the grasp of holding with one's hands. The bright minds behind these wearables believe it could also be used for robot locomotion and much more.
You may read the entire technical paper here.
What do you think about this interesting invention that could help millions feel their loved ones again? Let us know in the comments below.?For more in the world of?technology?and?science, keep reading?Indiatimes.com.?
References
Dent, S. (April, 2022).?Scientists 'knit' soft robotic wearables for easier design and fabrication. Engadget.
