Morphing cones under compression: New research uncovers surprises for soft robotic actuators

Engineers investigating the load-bearing capacity of conical shells, made from soft materials, have discovered performance-limiting weaknesses that could have implications for soft robotics — affecting the ability of morphing cones to perform fundamental mechanical tasks.

​Engineers investigating the load-bearing capacity of conical shells, made from soft materials, have discovered performance-limiting weaknesses that could have implications for soft robotics — affecting the ability of morphing cones to perform fundamental mechanical tasks. Engineers investigating the load-bearing capacity of conical shells, made from soft materials, have discovered performance-limiting weaknesses that could have implications for soft robotics — affecting the ability of morphing cones to perform fundamental mechanical tasks.