Mechanochromic Suction Cups for Local Stress Detection in Soft Robotics
Advancements in smart soft materials are enhancing the capabilities of robotic manipulators in object interactions and complex tasks. Mechanochromic materials, acting as lightweight sensors, offer easily interpretable visual feedback for localized stress detection, structural health monitoring, and energy-efficient robotic skins. Herein, an innovative mechanochromic soft end-effector capable of discerning local contact stresses during mechanical interactions with objects is presented and their relative position is ascertained.