Tubing Adapter for Soft Robots

thingiverse

One simple yet frustrating challenge in crafting silicone soft robots is creating a reliable and airtight connection between the tubing that supplies your robot with air and the soft robot itself. As a solution, I've developed these specialized adapters. After casting your soft robot, you can utilize the Customizer script on this page to generate the mold for your adapter. With it, you can print it out, cast it, fuse it to your robot, insert the tubing, tighten a zip-tie, and you're finished! YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQw4w9WgXcQ Print Settings Rafts: Doesn't Matter Supports: No Resolution: .2mm - .3mm Infill: 5% Notes: Print with 3 shells Instructions Step 1: Tailor it to your soft robot First, you must use the Customizer script to create the mold. Here are the various parameters and their functions: Flange Height: This determines the thickness of the flange (A.K.A. the part that attaches to the soft robot). I recommend any value around 10mm. Flange Radius: This influences the radius of the flange. It should be large enough to fit perfectly against the soft robot. For this value, it's better to exceed than to fall short. Sleeve Height: This determines the length of the "sleeve" where the tubing is inserted. I recommend any value around 10mm. Tubing Size: For this parameter, input the outer diameter (OD) of the tubing you're using. If your tubing has an OD of 1/4", convert it to millimeters (6.35mm) and enter that. Once you've entered these parameters, you can download the customized mold and print it with the print settings above. Step 2: Cast it Once you have printed the mold, pour in the same type of silicone used for the soft robot you are attaching it to. For instance, I'm using Ecoflex 00-30 for my soft robot, so I'm using Ecoflex 00-30 for my adapter. Let it cure for the required time. Step 3: Attach it to the robot Once the adapter has cured, leave it in the mold and spread some more silicone onto it. Be cautious not to use too much. Place the soft robot on top, ensuring proper alignment. Make sure the silicone covers all openings. Let this cure for the necessary amount of time. Step 4: Secure the connection Once it's cured, remove the adapter with your now-attached soft robot from the mold. Use a screwdriver to clear any blockages in the sleeve of the adapter. Then insert the tubing through the sleeve and into the soft robot. Securely tighten a zip-tie around the sleeve and tube. Step 5: Enjoy Now you can connect the other end of the tubing to an air source. Your robot is now ready for inflating!