Automated Manipulation of Miniature Objects Underwater Using Air Capillary Bridges: Pick-and-Place, Surface Cleaning, and Underwater Origami.

ABSTRACT: Various insects can entrap and stabilize air plastrons and bubbles underwater. When these bubbles interact with surfaces underwater, they create air capillary bridges that de-wet surfaces and even allow underwater reversible adhesion. In this study, a robotic arm with interchangeable three-dimensional (3D)-printed bubble-stabilizing units is used to create air capillary bridges underwater for manipulation of small objects. Particles of various sizes and shapes, thin sheets and substrates of diverse surface tensions, from hydrophilic to superhydrophobic, can be lifted, transported, placed, and oriented using one- or two-dimensional arrays of bubbles. Underwater adhesion, derived from the air capillary bridges, is quantified depending on the number, arrangement, and size of bubbles and the c

SUBMITTER: Weinstein T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8874901 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature