Ann: I'm beginning to worry that all the mimicry that you've been writing about is going to result in a class of robots that will incorporate all the best capabilities of bugs and animals. In a hundred years, I don't think we'll be able to beat robots at anything. At the very least, this is fodder for a great sci-fi movie.
That is very cool, what good is it? Could they make them 500% bigger? That could come in very handy. (i dont know what but i could probably thik of something)
It was quite something to see in the video, the mition that seemed to defy gravity. In all three instances, there seemed to be a velocity in the turn that seemed to keep the creature or robot from spinning off altogether. So perhaps the trick has to do with motion.
After I got over my initial desire to run and scream "Phil, come kill this bug!" I was wondering the same thing, Rob. I bet it is a combination of the two...
Also, this maneuver is particularly interesting. It nearly defies gravity. I'd be interested to know whether they solved this by the quick swing of the cylindrical physical movement or whether there was some mild adhesive in the "foot" that kept both the creature and the robot from falling.
Thanks, Rob. I found it especially interesting that nature had solved the same problem in a similar way in both a reptile and an insect. It's true that this DASH is aimed at first responder apps, but there's usually a lot of crossover between those and military apps for reconnaissance and surveillance activities. But I agree, it's good to see technology adapted to multiple uses in both civilian and military arenas.
Congrats on another wonderful article about taking abilities in the natural world and incorporating them into robotic technology. The video really says it all. Also, it's nice to see a development outside of military research.
I'm with you two: ecchh! But that's only my response to the bug part. My response to the robot part was: wow! And the second and third videos in the sequence, of the gecko and the DASH robot, aren't nearly as creepy. Although the DASH robot's movements are very close to a cockroach's.
I agree, Beth - while the technology is cool, talking about how it imitates roaches is not exactly a good marketing strategy, at least from my perspective. Makes me want to grab a shoe and squash it!
I suppose one should get excited about the idea of copying the agility of a roach and this is definitely a very cool development, but ... Why do all these robots seem to borrow traits from such disgusting creatures. I was getting creeped out just watching the robot's movements. Reminded me of a bad horror movie, or wose, one of my old apartments in college. Yuck!
By refining topologies and using new fluid technology, Moog's new peak sine drive controller increases available power without increasing controller volume.
Lantronix Inc. has expanded its line of controllers for sensor networks with the release of a rugged controller that improves management of automation systems used in a number of industries, including manufacturing, oil and gas, and chemicals.
Inspired by the hooks a parasitic worm uses to penetrate its host's intestines, the Karp Lab has invented a flexible adhesive patch covered with microneedles that adheres well to wet, soft tissues, but doesn't cause damage when removed.
From Dell / Intel® New Paradigms in Design Work Scott Hamilton, vertical market strategist for Dell Precision workstations, 5/2/2013 3
Early in my career, I worked as a draftsman and remember the days of drawing on vellum with numbered pencils and Mylar with plastic lead. This was a fun experience in the sense that I ...
I've been using workstations for more than 10 years and love finding ways to get more performance from my system. With demanding professional applications that require more power each ...
A lasting memory from my first job as an engineer in an auto assembly plant is standing on hard concrete at six in the morning, vending-machine coffee clutched in hand, listening to ...
A quick look into the merger of two powerhouse 3D printing OEMs and the new leader in rapid prototyping solutions, Stratasys. The industrial revolution is now led by 3D printing and engineers are given the opportunity to fully maximize their design capabilities, reduce their time-to-market and functionally test prototypes cheaper, faster and easier. Bruce Bradshaw, Director of Marketing in North America, will explore the large product offering and variety of materials that will help CAD designers articulate their product design with actual, physical prototypes. This broadcast will dive deep into technical information including application specific stories from real world customers and their experiences with 3D printing. 3D Printing is
To save this item to your list of favorite Design News content so you can find it later in your Profile page, click the "Save It" button next to the item.
If you found this interesting or useful, please use the links to the services below to share it with other readers. You will need a free account with each service to share an item via that service.
Tweet This
7 
