Piezoelectric ceramics are pivotal in advancing robotics, especially in miniaturized piezoelectric robots (MPRs), due to their capability to transform electrical signals into mechanical motion. This study explores the classification of piezoelectric ceramics into rigid and soft variants, emphasizing their distinct roles in robotic applications. Rigid ceramics, such as lead zirconate titanate (PZT), are renowned for their superior piezoelectric coefficients, precision, and durability, with advancements in additive manufacturing enabling complex geometries and multifunctionality. Conversely, soft piezoelectric materials, including polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and macrofiber composites (MFCs), are tailored for applications requiring flexibility and large deformation capabilities, excelling in biomimetic and adaptive robotic systems. The integration of rigid and soft piezoelectric ceramics offers a pathway for hybrid systems that capitalize on the precision of rigid materials and the adaptability of soft ones, fostering innovative designs and sustainable material strategies in robotics. This work provides a comprehensive analysis of material properties, fabrication techniques, and application potential, underscoring their transformative role in the evolution of robotics.

Keywords: Piezoelectric ceramic materials, Robotics.