Background Soft robots have the ability to bend, deform, configure, and adapt to their surroundings, making them an ideal choice for navigating unpredictable, unstructured, and confined environments. However, challenges remain with controlling high-dimensional appendages, and the development of versatile soft robots is still in progress. Octopuses...

Today, robots are designed for use on and in complex terrains and environments. In situations where it is cumbersome and/or hazardous to humans, unmanned vehicles are essential. For example, utility pipe cleaning can cost up to $400,000 per 10-mile segment, with workers scouring miles-long stretches of pipe to remove debris and identify problem areas....