告别笨重钢爪！MIT/斯坦福让机器人用“温柔藤蔓”搬运人体

Core Concept - The article discusses a groundbreaking robotic technology called "closed-loop grasping," developed by a team from MIT and Stanford, which allows robots to switch between flexible exploration and stable load-bearing modes, addressing the long-standing challenge of balancing strength and gentleness in robotic grasping [3][9]. Group 1: Challenges in Robotic Grasping - Traditional robotic grippers struggle to perform tasks requiring both gentleness and strength, such as picking up fragile objects and lifting heavy ones, due to the inherent trade-off between rigidity and flexibility [7][8]. - The grasping process is divided into two phases: establishing a grasp and maintaining it, where the first phase requires flexibility to navigate complex environments, and the second phase demands stability to resist various forces without damaging the object [8]. Group 2: Closed-Loop Grasping Mechanism - The "closed-loop grasping" paradigm allows robots to transform between different forms during the grasping process, inspired by topology, enabling them to adapt their structure based on the task at hand [9][12]. - The system operates in two stages: first, it enters an exploratory mode with an open-loop structure to navigate and find optimal grasping paths, and then it switches to a load-bearing mode where it becomes soft yet strong, distributing loads effectively [12][13]. Group 3: Design and Capabilities of the Vine Robot - The "vine robot," a flexible inflatable robot, mimics plant growth and can dynamically switch between open and closed-loop structures, achieving remarkable flexibility and strength [15]. - The maximum load capacity of a single closed-loop vine robot can reach 622 kg, showcasing its potential for heavy lifting [16]. Group 4: Demonstrated Applications - The vine robot has been successfully demonstrated in various scenarios, including gently lifting a 74.1 kg adult with a maximum contact pressure of only 16.95 kPa, significantly lower than standard medical slings [21]. - In a cluttered environment, the robot can navigate and grasp a 6.8 kg kettlebell, effectively solving complex robotic challenges [23]. - The system can create a stable grasp by forming interlocking structures, allowing it to securely hold objects without risk of dropping them [24]. Group 5: Future Implications - This research redefines robotic grasping, suggesting that robots can adapt their grasping mechanisms to meet specific needs, which could revolutionize fields such as healthcare, logistics, and agriculture [30][31]. - Future developments aim to integrate intelligent real-time navigation systems and optimize contact mechanics, enhancing the reliability and autonomy of the system in various applications [32].