Research advances in bio-inspired self-burrowing probes

Abstract

Geotechnical exploration is a critical technology for acquiring subsurface information, exploiting resources, and ensuring engineering safety. However, traditional exploration methods face significant challenges in extreme environments, such as the deep seas, outer spaces, and deserts. These methods often suffer from high power consumption, poor adaptability to different environments, and complex operations. Biomimetics offers new solutions to these challenges. Bio-inspired self-burrowing probes have emerged as a promising tool by mimicking the efficient, low-energy underground movement of biological organisms. This paper focuses on the emerging interdisciplinary field of bio-inspired self-burrowing probes and systematically reviews recent research progress. First, we summarized the biological burrowing mechanisms used for developing self-burrowing probes, and classified these mechanisms into three categories: leaving a cave after burrowing, organisms interact with soil to burrow, and assisted resistance reduction strategies. Second, we categorize current research methods and key technologies. Finally, we analyze major challenges and propose future research directions. This paper concludes that breakthroughs in bio-inspired self-burrowing probes depend on the deep integration of geotechnical engineering, robotics, and materials science.

Graphical abstract

Keywords

bio-inspired geotechnics / soil burrowing mechanism / self-burrowing probes / soft robots / discrete element method

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