Scientists at Harvard University and MIT (where else) have developed an origami-inspired robot that can assemble itself and move around completely autonomously. The scientists' prototype can transform itself from a flat structure to a functional, moving machine in about 4 minutes before scuttling away at a speed of about 5 cm per second.
The robot assembles itself by applying heat to specific areas using its on-board heater. The application of heat makes the plastic bend and shape itself to form the robot's body, frame and legs. Once the heat has been applied and the material has cooled into its new shape, the robot lifts itself up, powers up and runs away.
Aside from just being plain cool, the origami-inspired robot could aid in the development of pop-up machines and devices that could assemble themselves without human assistance.
What's Driving This Trend
- Origami-inspired Robots
- Origami-inspired robots that can assemble themselves and move autonomously create opportunities for self-assembling machines in industries such as manufacturing and logistics.
- Autonomous Robotics
- Autonomous robots that can assemble themselves using onboard heating mechanisms indicate possibilities that could lead to advancements in the field of robotics that require lesser human intervention.
- Pop-up Machines
- Pop-up machines that do not require human assistance can revolutionize industries like construction and furniture.
Who This Affects Most
- Manufacturing
- 3D printing and Pop-up machines can be used in manufacturing to help with rapid prototyping of parts.
- Logistics
- The introduction of self-assembling machines and drones can help improve the logistics industry, making it faster and more efficient.
- Construction
- Self-assembling robots can help in the construction industry with creating modular structures that can be easily assembled and built onsite.
