Repository logo

Infoscience

  • English
  • French
Log In
Logo EPFL, École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne

Infoscience

  • English
  • French
Log In
  1. Home
  2. Academic and Research Output
  3. Journal articles
  4. Lattice Structure Musculoskeletal Robots: Harnessing Programmable Geometric Topology and Anisotropy
 
research article

Lattice Structure Musculoskeletal Robots: Harnessing Programmable Geometric Topology and Anisotropy

Guan, Qinghua  
•
Dai, Benhui  
•
Cheng, Hung Hon  
Show more
July 16, 2025
Science Advances

Natural musculoskeletal systems combine soft tissues and rigid structures to achieve diverse mechanical behaviors that are both adaptive and precise. Inspired by these systems, we propose a programming method for designing bioinspired soft-rigid robotic structures using lattice geometries made from a single material. By introducing previously unknown approaches to the geometric design of unit cells within lattice structures-based on continuous blending and superposition of existing lattice geometries-we can precisely tune stiffness and anisotropy. These designs enable the creation of three-dimensional structures with spatially varying mechanical properties, ranging from tissue-like compliance to rigid, bone-like load-bearing capabilities. Using these methods, we fabricated a musculoskeletal-inspired tendon-driven robotic elephant that integrates joints with programmable bending profiles, achieving a continuously soft trunk. Our lattice geometry generation techniques allow for over 1 million discrete configurations and infinite geometric variations, offering a scalable solution for designing lightweight, adaptable robots.

  • Files
  • Details
  • Metrics
Loading...
Thumbnail Image
Name

sciadv.adu9856.pdf

Type

Main Document

Version

Published version

Access type

openaccess

License Condition

CC BY

Size

24.34 MB

Format

Adobe PDF

Checksum (MD5)

eb2f4521cd33d1de55a617367896c9e3

Logo EPFL, École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne
  • Contact
  • infoscience@epfl.ch

  • Follow us on Facebook
  • Follow us on Instagram
  • Follow us on LinkedIn
  • Follow us on X
  • Follow us on Youtube
AccessibilityLegal noticePrivacy policyCookie settingsEnd User AgreementGet helpFeedback

Infoscience is a service managed and provided by the Library and IT Services of EPFL. © EPFL, tous droits réservés