Research progress on sensing and feedback technologies for soft robotics aimed at human-machine interaction

Human-machine integration (HMI) serves as the core link between humans and intelligent systems, and its safety, intelligence, and stability directly determine the scope and effectiveness of HMI applications in fields such as healthcare and home services. This paper reviews research progress in soft robotics within the HMI domain, focusing on two core areas: sensor technology and dynamic response feedback systems. With respect to sensors, this article delineates the principles, performance, and application breakthroughs of flexible tactile/pressure sensors, strain sensors, flexible fiber optic sensors, and posture/vision sensors. In the field of dynamic response feedback, this paper analyzes the technical characteristics, research achievements, and applications of temperature-humidity sensing feedback, sound-light feedback, magnetic tactile perception, and flexible electronic skin interaction. Additionally, this paper emphasizes the current challenges faced by soft robots, including material fatigue failure, inadequate control system precision, and response delays. To develop more sophisticated and pervasive applications of soft robotics, this paper points out the need for progress in the innovation of smart materials, the integration of cross-modal interaction, and the advancement of self-powered technologies.