Mechanical revolution: this $20 American walking robot defies the laws of energy without a drop of electricity
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The mechanical revolution is here! A groundbreaking team from the University of California, San Diego, has developed an innovative walking robot that defies traditional expectations. This robot is designed without any electronics, making it both simple and affordable.
Utilizing accessible 3D printing techniques, it can operate in extreme environments, including underwater and in space. The future looks bright as researchers aim to create autonomous robots using recyclable materials, pushing the boundaries of technology and sustainability. 🌍🔧.
Simple materials for complex results
The team at the University of California, San Diego aimed to create walking robots using only accessible technologies. They utilized a desktop 3D printer and standard printing materials, which reduced production costs to about $20. This approach ensures exceptional durability and versatility in the robots. These soft robots are designed without traditional rigid components, instead employing flexible filaments that act as artificial muscles and control systems.
Led by postdoctoral researcher Yichen Zhai, the scientists tackled the challenge of creating a robot that moves solely through soft structures. This advancement marks a significant leap in the field of accessible robotics.
The internal mechanics of the robot
The robot’s movement is powered by a pneumatic oscillating circuit that controls its soft actuators. Similar to a steam locomotive, this system delivers air pressure in carefully timed sequences. Its six legs, equipped with four degrees of freedom, alternate movements, creating a natural walking motion.
When connected to a continuous source of compressed gas, these robots can operate continuously for up to three days in various environments, including grass, sand, and even underwater, thanks to a portable compressed gas cartridge.
Future prospects
The mechanical revolution is here, showcasing robots that operate without electronics. These robots excel in extreme conditions, such as high radiation zones, disaster areas, and even space. Led by Yichen Zhai, the team has already adapted 3D printing techniques to create electronic-free grippers and is continuously exploring new possibilities.
Future plans include storing compressed gas within the robots, making them fully autonomous. In collaboration with BASF through the California Research Alliance, the team is testing various soft materials for 3D printing. They aim to integrate recyclable and biodegradable materials and add manipulators like grippers to enhance the robots’ functionalities. This innovation represents a significant leap towards sustainable technology and autonomous solutions.
A promising and sustainable project
The project from the University of California, San Diego focuses on sustainability and accessibility. Researchers have demonstrated that it’s possible to create functional robots using affordable and readily available materials, avoiding costly components. Their findings, published in Advanced Intelligent Systems, pave the way for new applications and democratization of robotic technology.
This innovative approach prompts critical questions about the potential impact on various sectors, including industry and education, as well as our daily lives. The team encourages a reevaluation of how robotics can address environmental and industrial challenges, sparking curiosity about the future of accessible technologies.
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