Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 9, 2026

Cardiac Muscle Cell-based Actuator and Self-stabilizing Biorobot - Part 2
Published on: May 9, 2017
Toward metabolic robotics: insights from modeling embodied cognition in a biomechatronic symbiont
Alberto Montebelli1, Robert Lowe, Tom Ziemke
1Aalto University.
Abstract:
We present a novel example of a biomechatronic hybrid system. The living component of the system, embedded within microbial fuel cells, relies on the availability of food and water in order to produce electrical energy. The latter is essential to the operations of the mechatronic component, responsible for finding and collecting food and water, and for the execution of work. In simulation, we explore the behavioral and cognitive consequences of this symbiotic relation. In particular we highlight the importance of the integration of sensorimotor and metabolic signals within an evolutionary perspective, in order to create sound cognitive living technology.
Related Concept Videos
Mechanistic Models: Overview of Compartment Models
Symbiosis
Synthetic Biology
Golden rice
Golden rice is a genetically modified...
Mechanical Systems
Microbial Interactions: Cooperation
Indirect Motor Pathways
The vestibulospinal tract originates in the vestibular nuclei of the brainstem. The vestibular system detects changes in...

