A joint research team from the University of Bristol and Queen Mary University of London has developed a novel electro-deformable gel robot with shape-adaptive capabilities and agile movement characteristics. Published in Advanced Materials, this study demonstrates new advancements in soft robotics technology.

The electro-deformable gel robot utilizes specialized electro-deformable materials, achieving deformation through electric field control via ultra-light electrodes. Researcher Ciqun Xu from the University of Bristol stated: "Our electro-deformable gel robot represents a breakthrough, paving the way for the development of soft robotics technology." The robot can bend, stretch, and move in various complex ways, with deformation and motion ranges surpassing existing robotic technologies.

Compared to traditional rigid robots, soft robots offer superior adaptability and deformability, with potential applications in industry, medicine, and wearable devices. The team demonstrated that the electro-deformable gel robot can perform large-scale deformation and continuous motion while maintaining stable performance over 10,000 actuation cycles. Xu added: "The potential applications for soft robots are vast, from space exploration to healthcare, where their adaptability can provide solutions for scenarios unsuitable for traditional robots."

The geometric structure of this electro-deformable gel robot can be customized based on specific application needs, with video footage showing a humanoid structure capable of swinging along a ceiling. The technology can also be integrated with traditional rigid robots to form hybrid systems suitable for complex environments. The electro-deformable gel material consists of a soft polymer composite with nanocrystalline conductors, enabling precise remote control via electric fields.

The development of soft robotics technology opens new directions for next-generation intelligent robots. The successful development of this electro-deformable gel robot highlights the application prospects of electric field control technology in the field of soft robotics.