The future of robotics: flexible, soft, natural

When you think of robots, you probably picture metal, mechanical systems controlled through a central point. While many robots conform to this image today, soft robotics are opening new doors. Flexible materials allow systems to move more naturally and refined: ideal for applications in the medical field. This is exactly what Bas Overvelde is focusing on with his research. He is the scientific group leader of the Soft Robotic Matter Group at AMOLF, as well as an associate professor at the Eindhoven University of Technology. On Jan. 28, Overvelde will speak at IO+'s 3D Medical Event.

What exactly is soft robotics?

“We are researching how to make robots out of flexible materials. For example, instead of traditional mechanical robots with metal hinges, this research focuses on silicone rubbers to make robotic systems that you can inflate like a balloon. Then, we can build specific behaviors so that the robots can bend, stretch, and make other movements depending on the design. For example, you can make a soft gripper that looks a bit like the arm of an octopus.”

So, soft robots are more like organisms?

“In a sense, yes. Take humanoid robots. Today, these are often controlled centrally by artificial intelligence. However, this is very different from how we humans move. For example, we walk largely unconsciously. We consciously think about it only when we choose a direction or want to walk up a flight of stairs. The rest often happens automatically once we are in motion, thanks to reflexes and built-in movements in our bodies. Instead of relying on a central brain, I and my team are researching how to build the robot's behavior into the body itself.

These principles are also found in plants. Take the Venus flytrap, a plant that catches flies. When the plant touches something, it triggers a signal, with no central brain involved.”

Can you give an example of how soft robotics is applied in the medical field?

“I am currently working with surgeons and biomedical scientists, among others, on a large project. We are developing an artificial heart for patients with extreme heart failure within the Holland Hybrid Heart consortium. We received €11 million in funding for this consortium last year. My team focuses mainly on soft robotics and regulating the artificial heart so that it beats naturally. As with some other systems, we want the artificial heart to function naturally, with a rhythmic heartbeat rather than a constant blood flow.

The heart is an excellent example of a not entirely centrally controlled system. You can actively regulate your breathing, but hormones and other processes influence your heart rate. So, much “cleverness” is built into your heart and body. We are also trying to reflect similar features in our design, for example, to balance the pressure in both chambers of the heart automatically. We have already made prototypes demonstrating the concept, but it is a long process to make this available as an alternative to natural heart transplantation.” 

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What challenges are you running into with this project?

“One of the biggest challenges is developing a system that can function for a long time. The challenge is to create a heart that can perform at least 30 million beats per year without failure. The prototypes target 5 to 10 million beats. To meet this challenge, we are focusing on simplifying the design. The simpler the system, the less chance of errors or defects.”

What message do you want to convey at the 3D Medical Event?

“I want to emphasize the value of soft materials and systems, especially in the medical sector. Instead of relying on complex electronics and computer control, smart design principles can greatly improve interaction with the human body and reduce costs. In my presentation, I will discuss, among other things, the artificial heart and the possibility of replacing electronic valves with soft, 3D printed materials.”