Patent Analysis of Soft Pneumatic Actuators: A Systematic Literature Review

The soft pneumatic actuator is a technology in the robotics field driven by pneumatic power. Further, the problems in complicated fabrication processes can now be overcome with new technologies, such as additive manufacturing. Thus, the number of patent documents will also continue to increase. For this reason, a patent analysis is needed to help researchers map the direction of the research to be carried out. By analyzing existing patents, unnecessary investment in technology can be avoided as early as possible. Thus, this article aimed to find updates and gaps in existing patents. The patent analysis in this study used the systematic literature review method, which started with identifying, screening, and determining the patents being reviewed. In the early stages, 114 patents were obtained, and after screening, 18 patents related to the soft pneumatic actuator were obtained, divided into six families. Patents related to the existing soft pneumatic actuator are more directed to robotics and wearable devices. Hence, the current patent gap is still very wide open regarding fabrication, geometric shapes, and its application in other fields. Research gaps were obtained related to fabrication technology, geometric shapes, and applications in fields other than robotics and wearable devices that are still very wide open for development and patent registration to advanced technology.