SAEDNEWS: Scientists Unveil a New Generation of Shape-Shifting Robots That Adapt to Nature Using Their Own Muscles
According to the Science and Technology Service of SaedNews, citing Digiato, shape-shifting robots inspired by nature can alter their bodies and legs, mimicking how living organisms adapt to different environments. These three robots, modeled after animals in the wild, were developed by a team of researchers and engineers from the Department of Mechanical Engineering at this university. A study related to this research was recently published in Nature.
The robots incorporate lightweight artificial muscles similar to human muscles, capable of contracting in response to electricity. By embedding these muscles in the robot’s spine or outer skin, the machines can now change shape. Overall, this approach is highly promising, as it moves scientists closer to developing robots capable of navigating and working in challenging environments.
Jiang Yao, one of the project researchers, explained that the robots are made from materials whose strength changes with temperature fluctuations. This eliminates the need for bulky, power-intensive systems like magnetic screws. Such flexibility could make them potentially useful in search-and-rescue operations in disaster-stricken areas.
The published study presents three separate shape-shifting robot designs. The first is a gripper capable of sensing its environment and reshaping itself to interact with surrounding objects. The second is a quadruped robot that can bend or straighten its body, allowing it to pass through narrow gaps with ease. The third robot can adjust the shape and position of its legs, enabling it to move both on water and on land.
Yao noted, “Frogs can easily perform these kinds of body transformations. We drew inspiration from their body mechanics to create these shape-shifting robots. While these robots do not yet have the full freedom of movement of frogs, the progress is remarkable and promising.”
The team has been working on the project since 2017 and plans to equip the robots with additional sensors and cameras in the next phase, allowing them to navigate independently and choose the most efficient path among multiple routes.