A dual-paddle soft robot integrated with a bionic elephant nose gripper constructed on the foundation of PNIPAM/MoS₂ composite hydrogel

The movement patterns of diverse organisms inspire the design of flexible actuators. We hypothesized that mimicking biological structures could endow soft robots with versatile functions. In this research, we engineered a biomimetic light - driven swimming soft robot. By emulating the mechanics of boat paddles and elephant trunks, we developed a flexible paddle and a dexterous gripper. This enables the robot to effectively grasp and transport small objects. We further hypothesized that introducing molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂) into hydrogels could render them photoresponsive. We successfully created a temperature sensitive, photoresponsive composite hydrogel. Its volume can be precisely controlled through light exposure, mimicking the contraction and relaxation of muscles. The paddling motion and gripping functions of the bionic gripper are achieved by modulating the irradiation with Near-Infrared (NIR) light. This study offers significant insights into the development of light-driven soft robotic systems.