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Milli-scale cellular robots that can reconfigure morphologies and behaviors simultaneously.
Xiong Yang1, Rong Tan1, Haojian Lu1,2
1Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
Nature Communications
|July 19, 2022
Summary
Researchers developed milli-scale cellular robots (mCEBOTs) using magnetic fields for adaptable assembly and multi-mode movement. These modular robots offer solutions for complex tasks in challenging environments.
Area of Science:
- Robotics
- Materials Science
- Micro-engineering
Background:
- Modular robots offer adaptability but face challenges in small-scale construction due to unreliable docking.
- Existing modular robotic systems struggle with miniaturization and diverse functional reconfiguration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce a novel milli-scale cellular robot (mCEBOT) concept.
- To demonstrate a reliable docking and detaching strategy for small-scale modular robots.
- To enable diverse morphologies and multi-mode motion behaviors for adaptive mobility.
Main Methods:
- Heterogeneous assembly of short and long units.
- Utilizing external magnetic fields for selective unit assembly (end-by-end, side-by-side).
- Demonstrating diverse morphologies and motion capabilities (slipping, rolling, walking, climbing).
Main Results:
- mCEBOT units successfully assembled into various configurations under magnetic control.
- Achieved adaptive mobility across different terrains, including narrow spaces, high barriers, and wet surfaces.
- Showcased potential applications in target-taking and environmental exploration.
Conclusions:
- The mCEBOT concept provides a viable solution for small-scale modular robotics.
- Heterogeneous assembly and magnetic control enable significant miniaturization and functionalization.
- This approach opens new avenues for designing adaptable robots for unstructured environments.
