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.
Authors
- Xiaoyu Zheng (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8685-5728)
- Xumin Huang (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0139-3873)
- Bin Cui (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9941-5991)
- Ruirui Qiao (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8351-7093)
- T. Thang Vo‐Doan (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5065-5887)
- Changjiang Liu (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0846-5059)
Institutions
- The University of Queensland (AU)
- Zero to Three (US)
- University of California, Berkeley (US)
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
Funders
- Medical Research Council
- National Health and Medical Research Council