New octopus-inspired robot can move, hide, and lift 30x its weight

Researchers at the Korean Institute of Science and Technology have developed OCTOID, an advanced soft robot inspired by octopus abilities, capable of dynamic camouflage, reversible shape-shifting, and multifunctional movement including gripping. OCTOID’s design integrates two complementary layers made from cholesteric liquid crystal elastomers (CLCEs): an active layer that changes shape and structural color in response to stimuli, and a passive, stiff transparent layer that provides mechanical support. This bilayer configuration enables programmable, reversible motions such as directional locomotion and secure object manipulation, while simultaneously allowing adaptive color modulation for camouflage. The robot’s active layers incorporate embedded Nichrome wires for Joule heating, enabling rapid color shifts from blue to red within 40 seconds and contraction ratios up to nearly 30%, stable over repeated cycles. By tuning the thickness ratio between active and passive layers, OCTOID achieves controlled bending and movement, allowing it to travel at speeds of approximately 0.45 mm/s and lift objects up to 30 times its