The 'MARS' robotic rover has been developed by a team of researchers at The University of the West of England as a solution that would enable exploration like never before. The unit consists of the marimo algae that is held within that would would enable the robot to traverse demanding aquatic landscapes to collect information related to oxygen level and temperature. The algae is confined inside a 3D-printed exoskeleton and would enable the unit to draw energy from the sun's rays for operation.
The 'MARS' robotic rover -- which stands for Marimo Actuated Rover Systems -- is currently in its early phases of research and could help to radically change how we explore the deepest reaches of some of our aquatic environments.
Algae-Powered Rover Robots
The 'MARS' Robotic Rover Harnesses Solar Energy in a Natural Way
Trend Themes
1. Algae-powered Robotics - The use of algae as an energy source in robotics offers an opportunity for sustainable and eco-friendly innovation.
2. Aquatic Exploration Robotics - As the MARS robot demonstrates, there are opportunities for robotics to revolutionize our understanding of the world's oceans and aquatic environments.
3. Exoskeleton Robotics - The 3D-printed exoskeleton used in the MARS robot highlights the potential for exoskeletons in robotics to provide additional support for unique applications.
Industry Implications
1. Renewable Energy - The utilization of algae as a source of renewable energy in the MARS robot offers opportunities for further research and development in the energy sector.
2. Marine Science - The exploration capabilities of the MARS robot could be transformative for marine science, providing access to previously unexplored aquatic environments.
3. Robotics Manufacturing - The 3D-printed exoskeleton used in the MARS robot is an example of the evolving role of advanced manufacturing in robotics innovation.