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Despite the exponentially expanding capabilities of robotic systems with the introduction of soft robotics, the lack of practical considerations in designing and integrating soft robotic components hinders the widespread application of newly developed technology in real life. This study investigates the development and performance evaluation of soft-rigid hybrid (SRH) robotic systems employing multilayered bellow-shaped soft pneumatic actuators (MBSPAs) to overcome the common challenges exclusively exhibited in soft robotics. Specifically, we introduce a unique SRH revolute joint enabled by a single thermoplastic polyurethane-MBSPA and rigid components to tackle the limitations of existing soft pneumatic actuators (SPAs), such as restricted payload capacity, vulnerability to external damages, and lack of resilience against outdoor environment. The proposed SRH system entails rigid components encapsulating to protect the MBSPA throughout the entirety of the desired range of motion, and demonstrates improved displacement efficiency, force output, and resilience against external loads. The rigid components also help to stabilize the axis of motion, fostering high durability and repeatable motion. We also extend this concept to a one-degree of freedom SRH prismatic joint. Finite element method modeling is used to estimate the general actuator performance, facilitating the design of MBSPA with limited material information and bypassing trial and error. The wider application of this research targets delicate object handling in industries such as agriculture, encouraging safe and efficient automated harvesting. The article includes thorough actuator performance characterization including displacement, frequency response, durability with life cycle testing up to 25,000 cycles, force output, stiffness, and power density. Performance comparisons with other SPA are provided. A proof of concept 3-point gripper enabled by the proposed SRH joints is capable of gripping objects of various sizes and shapes, with detailed workspace analysis and demonstration showing the gripper's versatility. The SRH system presented here lays a robust foundation for the ongoing advancement of soft robotic technology toward real-life applications, unveiling the potential for a future in which robots operate efficiently in the targeted applications, aiming to integrate seamlessly into workflows with human workers.

This paper introduces a hands-on laboratory exercise focused on assembling and testing a hybrid soft-rigid active finger prosthetic for biomechanical and biomedical engineering (BME) education. This hands-on laboratory activity focuses on the design of a myoelectric finger prosthesis, integrating mechanical, electrical, sensor (i.e., inertial measurement units (IMUs), electromyography (EMG)), pneumatics, and embedded software concepts. We expose students to a hybrid soft-rigid robotic system, offering a flexible, modifiable lab activity that can be tailored to instructors' needs and curriculum requirements. All necessary files are made available in an open-access format for implementation. Off-the-shelf components are all purchasable through global vendors (e.g., DigiKey Electronics, McMaster-Carr, Amazon), costing approximately USD 100 per kit, largely with reusable elements. We piloted this lab with 40 undergraduate engineering students in a neural and rehabilitation engineering upper year elective course, receiving excellent positive feedback. Rooted in real-world applications, the lab is an engaging pedagogical platform, as students are eager to learn about systems with tangible impacts. Extensions to the lab, such as follow-up clinical (e.g., prosthetist) and/or technical (e.g., user-device interface design) discussion, are a natural means to deepen and promote interdisciplinary hands-on learning experiences. In conclusion, the lab session provides an engaging journey through the lifecycle of the prosthetic finger research and design process, spanning conceptualization and creation to the final assembly and testing phases., (Copyright © 2024 by ASME.)