Researchers from North Carolina State University and the University of Pennsylvania have developed innovative soft robots capable of navigating complex environments without any human guidance or computer programming. These ribbon-shaped robots, made from liquid crystal elastomers, demonstrate a breakthrough in “physical intelligence” by using their structure and material properties to overcome obstacles.
Self-Navigating Through Structural Design
The translucent, rotini-shaped robots move by harnessing thermal energy from surfaces hotter than 55°C (131°F). When placed on a warm surface, the portion of the ribbon touching the heat contracts while the exposed part remains unchanged, creating a rolling motion. Unlike previous smooth-rod designs that spin in place when encountering obstacles, the twisted ribbon shape enables the robot to autonomously adjust its path.
Two-Stage Obstacle Negotiation System
The robot employs two distinct mechanisms to bypass barriers:
- Rotation: When one end hits an object, the ribbon slightly pivots to maneuver around it
- Snapping: Central collisions trigger a rapid energy release, causing the robot to jump and reorient
“The snap’s intensity varies based on impact location, with the strongest response occurring at the ribbon’s center,” explains Yao Zhao, the study’s lead author. This gradient response system allows the robot to persistently find viable paths through challenging terrain.
Proven Performance in Diverse Environments
Experimental demonstrations showed the robots successfully navigating maze-like configurations and sandy slopes. The researchers particularly noted their potential for desert applications, where the robots demonstrated an ability to traverse loose sand inclines without external power sources or control systems.
Future Implications for Autonomous Robotics
Beyond their immediate visual appeal, these soft robots represent a significant advancement in energy-harvesting autonomous systems. “They open new possibilities for designing robots that can operate in unstructured environments like roads or deserts by utilizing ambient heat energy,” says corresponding author Jie Yin. The technology could inspire future developments in search-and-rescue robots or environmental monitoring systems that require minimal maintenance and no traditional power sources.
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