Engineers have utilized the principle governing the movement of those inflatable tube men to develop a small, flexible “robot” that can walk, hop, and swim. This mechanical system operates without requiring software, sensors, or any type of AI. Despite its straightforward nature, the inventors believe this creation could eventually be implemented in various applications.
Engineers have utilized the principles governing the swinging arm figures to drive a small, flexible ”
robot
able to walk, hop, and swim. Additionally, its movement system does not require software, sensors, or any type of artificial intelligence. Despite this relatively straightforward approach, the inventors of the robot aspire for the novel design to eventually be utilized in various applications ranging from intelligent capsules to aerospace technologies. This research is elaborated upon in a paper released on May 8 in the mentioned journal.
Science
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The key to the machine’s functionality and adaptability can be found in its set of four
soft, tubular legs
Similar to those spinning used car signs, the robot operates using a constant flow of air. Even though individual legs might move chaotically on their own, fluid dynamics ensure a distinct outcome when they function as one unit. Following a brief adjustment period, the device smoothly shifts into an organized walking pattern.
Unexpectedly, structure arises from disorder,
explained Alberto Comoretto
The lead author of the study and a researcher at the Netherlands’ Institute for Atomic and Molecular Physics (AMOLF) noted, “There are no codes or instructions; instead, the legs synchronize automatically, and the robot starts moving.”
The design doesn’t remain locked in its synchronized mode once it begins. Rather, it adjusts dynamically. For instance, constant air flow enables the device to realign itself when it encounters an obstruction and transition between land and water by employing a versatile range of movements. Through this process, the creation demonstrates a type of “decentralized intelligence” frequently observed in nature.
“Sea stars, for instance, use local feedback and body movements to synchronize their hundreds of tube feet instead of relying on a central brain,” explained co-author Mannus Schomaker.
The energy-efficient design is surprisingly swift as well. When operating at full throttle, this device can achieve up to 30 body lengths per second. To put that into perspective compared with a Ferrari, which manages only 20 body lengths per second. Considering all these factors, the creators think their invention presents an appealing option over much pricier bots that typically demand substantial machinery and complex coding—usually costing significantly more.
The consequences extend well past tiny wiggling armatures. Advanced systems utilizing air flow dynamics might be integrated into micro-robotic “intelligent capsules” designed for safe delivery to specific tissues where they can release medication, as well as into wearable exo-suits that align with a wearer’s motions sans computer processors. Eliminating sensitive electronic components may also enable these mechanical devices to function effectively in harsh conditions such as outer space.
“Simple objects, like tubes, can give rise to complex and functional behavior, provided we understand how to harness the underlying physics,” said principal investigator Bas Overvelde. “There is no brain, no computer. Essentially, it’s a machine. But when properly designed, it can outperform many robotic systems and behave like an artificial creature.”
