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A high-frequency, interaction-induced pneumatic oscillator enabling versatile soft robotics

Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Here, we report a high-frequency, interaction-induced pneumatic oscillator (HIPO) that generates self-sustained oscillations through internal mechanical-fluidic coupling in soft materials. Under constant airflow, reversible contact switching between a holed membrane and a flexible cover enables periodic oscillations up to 97 Hz without rigid valves or electronic control. The oscillator directly converts pneumatic energy into mechanical motion and drives diverse bioinspired soft robots, including crawling, flapping, and swimming systems. By integrating oscillation generation, actuation, and environmental interaction within a single compliant structure, HIPO establishes a compact and scalable approach to embodied actuation in soft robotics.
DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrp.2026.103408
Authors: Longchuan Li, Shuqian He, Qiukai Qi, Ye Cui, Cong Yan, Kaige Jiang, Shuai Kang, Isao T. Tokuda, Zhongkui Wang, Shugen Ma, Huaping Liu
Institutions: Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Ritsumeikan University, University of Bristol, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou), Beijing National Research Center for Information Science and Technology, Tsinghua University
Language: English
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $5,620
OpenAlex ID: W7165895039
FWCI:
Cites: 57
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