Soft robots are robots with physically flexible bodies. Their design often mimics natural creatures, especially entirely soft organisms like octopuses, to efficiently move in complex environments. Key features include:

1. Pressure Systems: Utilizing soft resins and fluid sacs to change shape and volume.

2. Hygroscopic Shape Change: Inspired by plant cells reacting to humidity changes.

3. Arachnid Locomotion: Mimicking spiders' precise control over joints through fluid pressure.

4. Additive Manufacturing: Techniques like Shape Deposition Manufacturing, Smart Composite Microstructure, and 3D multi-material printing are used to create complex, flexible structures​​.

Companies Making Soft Robots

1. iCOBOTS: Offers collaborative robots integrating RPA and AI.

2. Soft Gripping: Focuses on flexible gripping with modular designs.

3. Soft Robot Tech: Provides control technology for soft robots.

4. Brain Corp: Automates workflows with integrated robots.

5. Diligent Robotics: Creates AI-based robot assistants for healthcare.

6. Somnox: Develops science-backed sleep companions.

7. SpectroPlast: Offers on-demand silicone additive manufacturing.

8. Squishy Robotics: Develops mobile sensor robots with tensegrity structures.

9. Soft Robotics: Provides automated picking solutions.

10. Covariant: Develops AI for versatile robotic applications