Scientists at the Tokyo Institute of Technology has developed the Air Hopper, a robot that can jump like a grasshopper. Extremely limber, the Air Hopper can also roll around and walk.
The Air Hopper is shaped very much like its insect counterpart, and looks truly technologically advanced. With the ability to jump one foot high however, this is one 'pet' you would want to keep a close eye on.
Robotic Grasshoppers
The Air Hopper Can Jump One Foot High Off the Ground
Trend Themes
1. Robotic Jumping - The development of robots with jumping capabilities presents disruptive innovation opportunities in areas such as search and rescue, exploration, and sports.
2. Bio-inspired Robotics - Advancements in creating robots that mimic the movements and abilities of animals like grasshoppers open up opportunities for disruptive innovation in fields such as agriculture, transportation, and entertainment.
3. Agile Robotics - The Air Hopper's ability to jump, roll, and walk demonstrates the potential for agile robots that can navigate diverse environments, leading to disruptive innovation in industries such as construction, logistics, and security.
Industry Implications
1. Robotics - The development of robotic grasshoppers like the Air Hopper has disruptive innovation potential in industries such as industrial automation, healthcare, and consumer electronics.
2. Animal-inspired Technology - The bio-inspired design of the Air Hopper could lead to disruptive innovation in industries such as prosthetics, fashion, and aerospace engineering.
3. Sports and Entertainment - The jumping capabilities of the Air Hopper present disruptive innovation opportunities in industries such as robotics competitions, theme parks, and virtual reality gaming.