On November 4th, a collaborative effort between Harbin Engineering University, Zhejiang University, Beihang University, Harvard University, and the Deep Sea Institute of the Chinese Academy of Sciences resulted in the publication of an evolutionary article in the internationally renowned journal Nature Communications. The article, titled "Bioinspired Soft Robots for Deep-Sea Exploration," features HEU Qingdao Innovation and Development Base as the primary contributor.

▲ Evolutionary design of deep-sea soft machines and a sketch map illustrating actual application scenarios.

▲ Development sketch of deep-sea soft machines.

▲ Soft sensors inspired by deep-sea organisms.

This publication delves into the methods of evolutionary design for driving, sensing, and self-adaptive pressure in deep-sea soft robots. It offers insights into the propulsion, driving mechanisms, information perception, and mechanical design of these robots from an evolutionary perspective. The envisioned future for deep-sea soft robots involves integrating technologies like flexible circuits, soft drives, flexible sensors, and energy regeneration.

Flexible circuit technology opens up the possibility of achieving a finely distributed internal pressure resistance structure for robots. Thin film acoustic sensors enable intelligent transmission of array signals, while integrated deep-sea energy regeneration technology makes it feasible for soft robots to operate and sustain themselves in the deep sea over extended periods.

▲ Professor LI Guorui guiding students.