Scientists at the University of Edinburgh claim to have developed the first soft robots that can walk straight out of the machines that make them—a breakthrough that could transform the future of robotics. These flexible, four-legged devices were created using a new low-cost 3D printing system, aiming to pave the way for intelligent soft robotic […]
Scientists at the University of Edinburgh claim to have developed the first soft robots that can walk straight out of the machines that make them—a breakthrough that could transform the future of robotics.
These flexible, four-legged devices were created using a new low-cost 3D printing system, aiming to pave the way for intelligent soft robotic systems with no electronic parts.
Soft machines, made from compliant materials like soft plastics, have long been seen as promising for applications in nuclear decommissioning, the biomedical sector, and even space exploration.
However, a lack of standardised design processes, high costs, and the need for specialist expertise have historically limited their real-world use.
To address these challenges, the Edinburgh team built a desktop 3D printing system—the Flex Printer—that can be assembled for under £400 ($540) using off-the-shelf parts.
The user-friendly setup enables even first-time users to design and print soft robots in just a few days.
The team demonstrated the capabilities of their system by creating palm-sized robots from a single soft plastic material, powered by compressed air (see main pic for scale). Once printed, the devices are connected to an air supply and can walk straight off the printer.
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Lead engineer Maks Gepner explained, “It used to take years to figure out how to print using these materials. Using our new platform, anyone can now easily print things which were previously thought to be impossible.
“This is a game-changer for engineers and artists alike. Our hope is that this technology will help drive the next wave of research breakthroughs. Without the long-standing manufacturing and design bottlenecks holding it back, we believe soft robotics is ready to make a major real-world impact.”
Globally, soft robotics is already making its mark. In the medical field, soft robots are being used in minimally invasive surgery, rehabilitation devices, and wearable exoskeletons.
Soft Robots are being used in minimally invasive surgery
In agriculture, they’re enabling delicate harvesting of crops without bruising them. In the food industry, soft robotic grippers help sort and package fragile items.
As Edinburgh’s team continues to refine their designs, their work could accelerate the adoption of these technologies in sectors worldwide, bridging the gap between cutting-edge research and everyday applications.
The findings are published in the journal Device, part of the Cell Press group of journals, with funding from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council.
