3D Printing of Soft Robotic Systems: Advances in Fabrication Strategies and Future Trends

Soft robotic systems, inspired by natural organisms, have demonstrated significant potential in drug delivery, minimally invasive surgery, and wearables. Among diverse fabrication techniques, 3D printing stands out for its unparalleled advantages in design freedom, functional integration, and manufacturing efficiency. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the matrix materials and functional components used in 3D‐printed soft robotic systems, along with the most prevalent 3D printing technologies. Furthermore, fabrication strategies, arranged in order of increasing complexity, are discussed in detail, with an emphasis on persistent challenges and corresponding solutions. Finally, we critically analyze the future perspectives in biomedical and engineering fields, as well as post‐fabrication considerations such as reliability, robustness, and environmental compatibility.

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Publication Details

Journal
Advanced Robotics Research
Published
2025-09-08
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1002/adrr.202500076
Citations
1
Primary Topic
3D Printing in Biomedical Research
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
0.67

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3D Printing of Soft Robotic Systems: Advances in Fabrication Strategies and Future Trends

Xiaoyu Zheng, Xumin Huang, Bin Cui, Ruirui Qiao et al.
1 citations
Advanced Robotics Research
3D Printing in Biomedical Research
0.67
article

3D Printing of Soft Robotic Systems: Advances in Fabrication Strategies and Future Trends

Xiaoyu Zheng, Xumin Huang, Bin Cui, Ruirui Qiao, T. Thang Vo‐Doan, Changjiang Liu
article en
1 citations

Abstract

Soft robotic systems, inspired by natural organisms, have demonstrated significant potential in drug delivery, minimally invasive surgery, and wearables. Among diverse fabrication techniques, 3D printing stands out for its unparalleled advantages in design freedom, functional integration, and manufacturing efficiency. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the matrix materials and functional components used in 3D‐printed soft robotic systems, along with the most prevalent 3D printing technologies. Furthermore, fabrication strategies, arranged in order of increasing complexity, are discussed in detail, with an emphasis on persistent challenges and corresponding solutions. Finally, we critically analyze the future perspectives in biomedical and engineering fields, as well as post‐fabrication considerations such as reliability, robustness, and environmental compatibility.

Advanced Robotics Research
The University of Queensland (AU), Zero to Three (US), University of California, Berkeley (US)
Medical Research Council, National Health and Medical Research Council
Openalex Percentile: Top 27%
3D Printing in Biomedical Research
0.67
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