Additive Manufacturing (3D-Printing) of soft robotic structures for wearable devices

A 3D printer will weave soft robotic textiles that can gently support injured wrists as they heal, moving with the patient rather than immobilising them. Current rehabilitation devices for complex joints like the wrist are often rigid, heavy, or restrict natural movement. This project tackles that problem by combining bioinspired textile design with additive manufacturing—essentially 3D-printing flexible fabric structures that can apply multidirectional support. The researchers will also develop control algorithms to coordinate these soft robotic textiles, allowing them to assist movement during therapy without forcing it. If successful, this work could produce wearable motion support systems that are comfortable enough for daily use, portable, and tailored to individual patients. That would change how physiotherapy is delivered for wrist injuries and similar conditions, shifting from bulky braces to discreet, responsive textiles. Beyond rehabilitation, the same approach could eventually be adapted for assistive clothing that aids movement in elderly or disabled users. For now, the project focuses on proving the concept—combining printing techniques, textile design, and control software into a working prototype.