Turning Hysteresis into a Robotic Superpower: A Paradigm Shift in Movement

In a groundbreaking advancement in robotics, a team of researchers led by Dr. Lin Cao from the University of Sheffield’s School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering has transformed a fundamental flaw in robotics into an innovative asset. By embracing the concept of hysteresis—a mechanical behavior often considered problematic—they have developed a new approach for soft robots to move, shift shape, and even “grow” with a dexterity that was previously unattainable.

Revisiting a Fundamental Belief

The conventional approach in robotics has long suggested that more motors equate to more dexterity in robot movements. This belief often leads to designs that are complex, cumbersome, and difficult to manage. Challenging this notion, Dr. Cao’s team introduced Hysteresis-Assisted Shape Morphing (HasMorph), leveraging hysteresis to enable robots to remember previous shapes and execute complex movements with minimal actuation.

Three Breakthroughs in One Concept

1. Paradigm Shift in Design: By converting hysteresis from a flaw into a beneficial feature, the researchers achieved controllable and stable shape changes in soft robots. This approach revolutionizes traditional design principles by seeking more efficient and effective motion control.

2. Innovative Actuation with HasMorph: The new method employs only two tendons to independently control multiple bending sections, allowing for billions of possible configurations. This simplifies the system while increasing its capability.

3. Reversible, Growth-Like Movement: Incorporating HasMorph technology with a tip-everting soft growing robot—similar to how plants grow—they devised a system that can change shape and direction, grow around obstacles, trace precise paths, and even retract its tip.

Implications of the HasMorph Innovation

This innovation could significantly impact several sectors:

• Minimally Invasive Surgery: Thin robotic endoscopes could easily navigate the human body to reach target areas without damaging surrounding tissues.
• Search and Rescue Operations: In disaster scenarios, robots might traverse through collapsed buildings to find survivors efficiently.
• Pipeline and Infrastructure Inspection: The ability to navigate tight, winding spaces without bulky mechanisms broadens the scope for inspection tasks.

According to Dr. Cao, “HasMorph is a paradigm shift in robotics, enabling smarter motions without the need for additional motors. It represents both simplification and increased intelligence in robotic movement.”

Key Takeaways

The HasMorph technique turns a historical limitation of robotic systems into a newfound strength by using the natural behavior of hysteresis. By thoughtfully redesigning how robots achieve movement and shape changes, Dr. Cao’s team has paved the way for more agile, adaptive, and versatile robotic systems that could make crucial surgeries safer, rescue operations more effective, and infrastructure maintenance more efficient. This redefinition of robotics moves significantly closer to actualizing more dexterous and intelligent robotic systems.