Core Viewpoint - The research conducted by the Harbin Engineering University team presents a novel deep-sea soft robot that operates autonomously, showcasing significant advancements in underwater robotics technology [3][5][17]. Group 1: Research and Development - The research was a collaborative effort involving Harbin Engineering University, Zhejiang University, and the China Ship Scientific Research Center, and it has been validated in various deep-sea environments, including depths of 1369 meters and 4070 meters [5][15]. - The robot measures approximately 32 cm in length and 18 cm in wingspan, weighing only 670 grams, and is designed to withstand extreme underwater pressure without a rigid shell [7][11]. Group 2: Technical Innovations - The robot utilizes an electrohydraulic drive mechanism inspired by the "electrohydrodynamics" phenomenon, allowing for precise control of its flexible components through the directional flow of dielectric fluid [11][13]. - A unique "electrohydraulic, plasticized medium integration" strategy was developed to maintain the flexibility of the polymer shell while ensuring efficient actuation, utilizing surrounding seawater as an alternating electrode to enhance performance [13][15]. Group 3: Functional Capabilities - The robot is equipped with a miniaturized energy control system that enables coordinated movement, allowing it to perform various maneuvers such as straight-line motion and turns in response to electrical signals [13][15]. - It features a micro deep-sea optical sensing system that provides real-time awareness of its movement and environmental targets, enhancing its capabilities for near-bottom sensing in extreme conditions [13][15]. Group 4: Testing and Future Directions - The team conducted extensive sea trials, demonstrating the robot's ability to perform complex trajectory movements and environmental sensing tasks in challenging underwater conditions [15][20]. - Future research will focus on interdisciplinary integration of driving, sensing, and communication systems for small deep-sea soft robots, aiming to overcome challenges related to material durability and system reliability [20].

Core Insights - The research team has made significant advancements in soft robotics by developing a multifunctional robot based on a new type of electroactive polymer, which is expected to meet the demands of complex structures and extreme cold environments [1][3] Group 1: Development of New Materials - The team has created a novel polyvinyl chloride-based electroactive polymer that features low voltage drive, high electro-adhesion, and controllable self-heating capabilities [2] - The introduction of ethylene acetate into the polyvinyl chloride gel effectively mitigates heating and electrical breakdown issues caused by plasticizer migration, while significantly enhancing the dielectric and mechanical properties of the material [2] - Compared to existing materials, the new polymer exhibits over a 50% reduction in heating, a lifespan extension of more than 15 times, a 1.75 times increase in output force, and a 2.15 times increase in electro-adhesion [2] Group 2: Robot Capabilities and Applications - The developed micro soft robot is capable of rapid crawling, self-heating in low-temperature environments, modular assembly, and collaborative operation [2] - The robot operates at a notably low voltage of only 72.5V, which is significantly lower than existing similar systems [2] - In extreme cold testing, the robot can perform self-heating, inspection, and ice melting tasks in environments as low as -50°C, showcasing its advantages in applications such as aircraft engine blade inspection and narrow gap detection [3]

Core Viewpoint - Cornell University's scientists have developed a soft robot designed to inject substances into plant leaves, significantly improving the precision and reducing damage compared to traditional methods [1][2][12]. Group 1: Challenges in Plant Injection - Traditional methods for injecting substances into plant leaves are inefficient and often cause significant damage, with injury rates reaching up to 113.8% [6][7]. - The leaf's defense mechanisms, such as small stomatal openings and hydrophobic surfaces, complicate the injection process [6][5]. Group 2: Soft Robot Design - The soft robot features a sandglass-shaped actuator that generates substantial force while minimizing lateral expansion, allowing for effective injection without causing excessive movement [10][11]. - The robot can exert a force of 168.47 ± 5.34 Newtons (approximately equivalent to 17 kg) and can extend 43.55 ± 3.1 mm, showcasing impressive performance in the field of soft actuators [11]. Group 3: Injection Method and Success Rate - The "stamping" injection method allows for a gentle application of liquid into the leaf, achieving an injection success rate of over 91% and significantly reducing damage to the plant [11][12]. - The injection area is 12 times larger than traditional methods, with damage rates as low as 3.6% for sunflower leaves and zero damage for cotton leaves [11][12]. Group 4: Innovative Applications - The AquaDust nanosensor can be injected into leaves to monitor water levels in real-time, providing a non-destructive method for assessing plant hydration [16][17]. - Genetic modification using Agrobacterium can be performed by injecting genes into leaves, allowing for visual tracking of gene expression through color changes [16][17]. Group 5: Future Implications for Agriculture - The research opens new avenues for soft robotics in agriculture, enabling precise care for individual plants and potentially revolutionizing agricultural practices [20][21]. - The cost of the device is approximately $155, which could decrease significantly with mass production, making it accessible for agricultural applications [20].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights a significant breakthrough in underwater robotics with the development of a light-controlled artificial muscle system, which enhances the performance and flexibility of underwater robots by eliminating the need for cables and heavy power supplies [1][4]. Group 1: Technological Breakthrough - A South Korean research team has successfully developed a fully light-controlled artificial muscle system for underwater robots, showcasing superior power performance compared to biological muscles [1]. - The new actuator, based on photo-chemical responsive materials, allows for autonomous operation in underwater environments, paving the way for cable-free intelligent underwater equipment [1][4]. - The artificial muscle exhibits a contraction rate of 60% under UV light and can quickly recover when switched to visible light, enabling strong driving capabilities without any power supply [1][2]. Group 2: Performance Metrics - Experimental data indicates that the energy density of the new light-driven muscle reaches 15 kJ/m³, more than double that of mammalian skeletal muscle [2]. - The driving strain produced by this technology exceeds three times that of similar photo-chemical materials, maintaining stable performance even after hundreds of cycles [2]. Group 3: Application and Future Prospects - The prototype robot equipped with this artificial muscle demonstrates exceptional operational capabilities, including precise object manipulation and navigation through complex environments [4]. - The technology addresses energy supply challenges for underwater robots and introduces a new paradigm where smart materials serve as power units [4]. - The research team aims to advance industrial applications of this technology within three years, with potential uses in underwater exploration, marine engineering, and medical devices, expecting commercialization by 2030 [4]. Group 4: Industry Implications - This breakthrough signifies a new phase in soft robotics development, characterized by strong environmental adaptability, high driving efficiency, and superior system integration [4]. - The ongoing advancements in material science suggest that cable-free robots could play crucial roles in extreme environments such as deep space exploration and disaster rescue operations [4].