UK scientists create shape-shifting jelly robot that moves with electric fields
In a groundbreaking achievement, British researchers have developed a soft, jelly-like robot that moves and changes shape using external electric fields, without the need for motors or joints. Designed by University of Bristol scientists, the robot has the ability to reshape its body to bend, stretch, and move, making it an ideal candidate for exploration in tight, fragile, or hazardous environments.
The robot, which has been described as a “shape-shifting jelly robot,” is made of a soft, flexible material that can be controlled using electric fields. By applying an electric field to the robot, researchers can cause it to change shape and move in a specific direction. This is achieved through the use of electroactive polymers, which are materials that can change shape or size when an electric field is applied.
One of the most significant advantages of this robot is its ability to navigate through tight spaces without causing damage. Unlike traditional robots, which often rely on rigid structures and motors to move, the shape-shifting jelly robot can flex and adapt to its surroundings, making it perfect for exploring fragile or hazardous environments. For example, it could be used to explore damaged buildings or disaster zones, where traditional robots might struggle to navigate.
The potential applications of this technology are vast and varied. In the field of search and rescue, the shape-shifting jelly robot could be used to locate and retrieve people trapped in tight spaces. It could also be used in environmental monitoring, where it could be used to track and monitor changes in delicate ecosystems. Additionally, the robot could be used in medical applications, such as navigating through the human body to deliver drugs or perform surgery.
The development of the shape-shifting jelly robot is a significant breakthrough in the field of robotics, and it has the potential to revolutionize the way we approach exploration and navigation in challenging environments. The use of electric fields to control the robot’s movement and shape means that it can be powered wirelessly, eliminating the need for bulky batteries or motors.
The University of Bristol scientists behind the project have been working on the development of the shape-shifting jelly robot for several years, and their research has been published in a leading scientific journal. The team, led by Dr. Jonathan Rossiter, has been experimenting with different materials and technologies to create a robot that can change shape and move in response to electric fields.
In a video demonstration of the robot, it can be seen bending and stretching in response to electric fields, and even moving through a narrow tube. The robot’s ability to change shape and move in a flexible and adaptable way makes it ideal for a wide range of applications, from search and rescue to environmental monitoring.
The development of the shape-shifting jelly robot is a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of British researchers, and it highlights the UK’s position as a leader in the field of robotics and artificial intelligence. As the technology continues to evolve and improve, it is likely that we will see the shape-shifting jelly robot being used in a wide range of applications, from exploration and navigation to medical and environmental monitoring.
In conclusion, the creation of the shape-shifting jelly robot is a significant breakthrough in the field of robotics, and it has the potential to revolutionize the way we approach exploration and navigation in challenging environments. With its ability to change shape and move in response to electric fields, the robot is perfect for navigating tight, fragile, or hazardous environments, and it has a wide range of potential applications. As researchers continue to develop and improve the technology, it will be exciting to see where this innovative robot can go.
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