Robo-hand to help Reef
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A robotic hand is being trained to help cultivate baby corals for reef restoration.
CSIRO has unveiled a world-first robotic tool that features soft robotic “gripper” to assist in cultivating fragile baby corals, a critical task for preserving the planet’s declining reef ecosystems.
The gripper is part of the Coral Husbandry Automated Raceway Machine (CHARM), developed by the Beyond Coral Foundation.
It mimics human dexterity, safely handling coral tissue while being durable enough to lift varied sizes.
“By automating this process, we can contribute to broader global efforts to scale coral farming and help restore the world’s reefs,” says Dr Josh Pinskier, a Soft Robotics Scientist with CSIRO’s Data61.
AI-powered generative design algorithms shaped the gripper’s development, enabling it to manage coral delicately while resisting the harsh conditions of saltwater.
“We 3D-printed the gripper from hard polymer and soft rubber, with only a few screws and bolts, to overcome corrosion,” said Sarah Baldwin, a Mechatronics Engineer who led the design
The system also supports other tools, including algae-cleaning brushes, further streamlining coral farming.
Its proponents say this adaptability positions CHARM for widespread use in aquariums and coral farms globally, aiding large-scale reef restoration efforts.
The project is part of CSIRO’s Kick-Start program, providing funding and research expertise to Australian start-ups and SMEs.
While the gripper marks a significant advance in coral propagation, challenges remain.
“The next challenge is placing the corals back in their natural habitat, and a well-designed gripper could facilitate the transition from growth to deployment,” said Stephen Rodan, inventor of CHARM and President of Beyond Coral Foundation.
The Beyond Coral Foundation retains intellectual property rights for the project. More details are accessible here
