Despite its importance and considerable demands, the field of Soft Robotics faces a number of fundamental scientific challenges: the studies of unconventional materials are still in their exploration phase, and it has not been fully clarified what materials are available and useful for robotic applications; tools and methods for fabrication and assembly are not established; we do not have broadly agreed methods of modeling and simulation of soft continuum bodies; it is not fully understood how to achieve sensing, actuation and control in soft bodied robots; and we are still exploring what are the good ways to test, evaluate, and communicate the soft robotics technologies. From this perspective, this technical committee will bring together the scientists and engineers who have different backgrounds and disciplines, and provide a set of opportunities to discuss these open issues.
Our Focus Areas
- scientific problems related to soft-bodied robots
- design of soft robots
- soft materials for robots
- modeling and simulation techniques of soft bodies
- fabrication and control of soft bodies
- interdisciplinary interactions with biological/medical sciences, material sciences and chemistry
- soft robotic applications
Our Working Groups
The IEEE RAS Soft Robotics TC has instantiated two Working Groups to support the development of two key areas for our field: Diversity & Inclusion, and Reproducibility.
The Working Group on Diversity & Inclusion aims to create an inclusive, welcoming environment for all, and supports our existing diverse and multidisciplinary community so that all cultures, countries, genders, and backgrounds feel welcome.
The Working Group on Reproducibility looks to guide the development of the field to produce more reproducible research, which is critical as the field of Soft Robotics continues to grow and mature.