Engineers at the University of California San Diego have created an exciting new robot that can walk on four legs without using any electronics. Instead of relying on batteries or circuits, this innovative robot operates using only pressurized air. This breakthrough could lead to new types of robots that can work in places where electronics might not be safe or effective.
Led by Professor Michael T. Tolley, the research team shared their findings in the journal Science Robotics. This robot represents a big step toward making walking robots that do not need electronic parts, which could be useful for everything from simple toys to specialized robots that can operate in environments like MRI machines or mines.
Unlike most soft robots that use electronic systems for control, this new robot has a lightweight and low-cost system made of tubes and soft valves. These components are built directly into the robot, which means it doesn’t need heavy or expensive external devices to function. The robot can move based on commands or react to signals from its surroundings.
The design of the robot is inspired by how animals move, particularly a part of their nervous system called central pattern generators. The team created a system of valves that act like oscillators, which help control how air is delivered to the robot’s legs. This allows it to walk in a coordinated way. The robot’s movement is modeled after how sideneck turtles walk.
Additionally, the robot has simple mechanical sensors—soft bubbles filled with fluid—that are placed at the ends of its legs. When these bubbles are squeezed, they activate a valve that makes the robot change direction, allowing it to interact with its environment in basic ways.
Looking ahead, the team plans to improve the robot’s walking ability so it can navigate rough and uneven surfaces. This will require adding more advanced sensors and air systems. They also want to explore combining air-powered parts for movement with traditional electronic components for more complex tasks, creating a balance between simplicity and advanced functions.
This development could pave the way for new types of robots that are simpler, safer, and more adaptable to different environments.
(Video Courtesy : JacobsSchoolNews)
