Untethered multifunctional biomimetic soft actuator with programmable shape deformation capabilities and localized maneuverability

Stimulus-responsive materials are driving the rapid developments of soft actuators. Despite exciting advancements having been made, the integration of multistimulus response capability, programmable shape deformation, and local manipulability into a single material system remains a challenge. In this study, we developed an untethered bilayer material that is responsive to both light and magnetic fields. This bilayer material is achieved by integrating a photosensitive bilayer material with magnetoactive soft materials with programmable magnetic domains. The resulting actuators exhibit excellent responsiveness to both optical and magnetic stimuli. In addition, they can be manipulated through the synergistic effects of local light stimulation and a magnetic field, thereby enhancing their control versatility. These capabilities make the device suitable for a wide range of applications, including biomimetic robots and flexible electronic devices. The underlying principle of coupling shape-morphing and responsive actuation offers significant promise for future advancements to the development of soft robots and other functional devices.