# Group-Coordinated Cubes MIT Created Modular Robots That Can Self Assemble Using Barcodes By Daniel Johnson | Published 2019-11-04 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/modular-robots References: [techcrunch](https://techcrunch.com/2019/11/01/mits-self-propelled-block-robots-can-now-manage-basic-swarm-coordination/) & [csail.mit.edu](https://www.csail.mit.edu/news/self-transforming-robot-blocks-jump-spin-flip-and-identify-each-other) The [MIT](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/speech-to-reality) Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory created modular robots that are able to move in groups. The modular robots are in cube shapes, and they can organize and communicate to assemble different shapes. There are 16 individual blocks that interact using barcodes to identify similar robots. This gives them the ability to move over other blocks. The cubes also have the ability to make short jumps. MIT's modular robots are able to execute tasks, and even organize into different shapes based on external signals. The Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence laboratory believe technology like this could be further developed and used to create [self-assembling materials](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/arkhive), where structures or bridges could be constructed by the material itself. Image Credit: MIT CASIL ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 1.4/10 - Popularity: 4% | Activity: 28% | Freshness: 9% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Gen Alpha, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [AI](https://www.trendhunter.com/ai) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Modular Robotics:** Modular robots that self-assemble using barcodes can become a disruptive innovation in manufacturing and construction industries. - **Group Coordination:** Robots that coordinate and communicate with each other can be used to improve efficiency and productivity in industrial settings. - **Self-assembling Materials:** The development of self-assembling materials can lead to a revolution in construction and infrastructure industries. ### Who This Affects Most - **Manufacturing:** Modular robots can be used in manufacturing to automate production and reduce costs. - **Construction:** Modular robots and self-assembling materials can improve the efficiency and safety of construction sites. - **Infrastructure:** Self-assembling materials can revolutionize the construction and maintenance of infrastructure like roads, bridges, and buildings. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Modular Robotics Kits](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/modular-robotics-kit.md) - [Modular Robot Developments](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-tron-2.md) - [Voice-Led Fabrication Robots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/speech-to-reality.md) - [Bio-Inspired Transforming Robots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bioinspired-transforming-robot.md) - [Miniature Flying Robots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tiny-robot.md) - [Soccer-Dribbling Robots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/soccerdribbling-robot.md) - [Microscale Swimming Robots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/swimming-robots-1.md) - [Modular AI Builders](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aismartcube.md) - [Diminutive DIY Desktop Robots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/diy-desktop-robot.md)