The field of soft robotics has gained significant attention over the past decade, with researchers striving to create adaptable robots that can mimic the mobility of various animals and insects. These soft robots, made from flexible materials, offer increased robustness, ease of control, and environmental compliance compared to traditional robots. Recent advancements have seen the development of dynamic applications for these robots, requiring exploration into structural designs, novel soft functional materials, additive manufacturing techniques, and robust mathematical modelling. However, the application of these robots for underwater exploration presents unique challenges, including water pressure, system leakage, real-time monitoring, and mechanical robustness. Despite these challenges, a new paradigm of underwater biomimetic actuators has emerged, offering the potential for simpler, more efficient, and easier to adopt robots.

The goal of this research topic is to present the latest research achievements, findings, and ideas in the field of soft robotics, with a particular focus on underwater applications. The aim is to explore the design, modelling, and fabrication of sustainable, efficient, and high-speed autonomous soft robots for underwater applications using all-printed approaches. This includes the use of the latest 3D and 4D printing techniques. The research will also examine the combination of efficient additive printing, actuator structural design, and reliable flexible electronics. The ultimate objective is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the advancements that enable soft robots to explore aquatic environments continuously and precisely.

The scope of this research topic is broad, encompassing the design of soft robotic systems using 3D/4D printing techniques, design optimization using simulation software such as ANSYS/COMSOL, hydrodynamics, and novel printable polymers. We welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- Materials selection and structure design of actuators
- Performance optimization of soft actuators
- Modelling and simulation of soft actuators
- Self-sensing actuators for underwater exploration
- Advancements in the printing process
- Application demonstrations of soft robots

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Frontiers in Electronics

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