Color-Changing, Malleable DARPA Robot For $100
DARPA is currently developing a singular chameleon robot, which can alter its shape to fit in constrained spaces and light up in the dark for potential defense and surveillance applications. This project is a part of the Maximum Mobility and Manipulation (M3) program. The palm-sized robot is expected to cost under $100, with future reductions in price. What a bargain!
Researchers from Harvard University’s Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology and the Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering explain that the change in color, contrast, pattern, apparent shape, luminescence, and surface temperature is driven by simple microfluidic networks.
#-Link-Snipped-#
The color of the microfluidic networks can change colors in visible and infrared ranges simultaneously, a quality color-changing organisms lack. These networks facilitate functions like actuation, camouflage, display, fluid transport and temperature regulation in soft robots. Tethers link the control system to the robot which pumps the pressurized gases and liquids. The pumping rate of 2.25 milliliters per minute allows the robot to switch color in a matter of 30 seconds. Once filled, the robot does not require power to sustain the color.
DARPA's original purpose behind the research was to provide efficient robots for a wide range of future defense missions but the medical applications of these soft robots have not escaped the notice of Researchers. The device's ability to simulate fluid vessels and muscle motion for realistic modeling or training can be of great use in prosthetic technology.
Below is a demo of the DARPA robot performing its conjuring tricks.
https://youtu.be/LpOl_pEmRqs
Source: GSNÂ Image Credit: #-Link-Snipped-#
Researchers from Harvard University’s Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology and the Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering explain that the change in color, contrast, pattern, apparent shape, luminescence, and surface temperature is driven by simple microfluidic networks.
#-Link-Snipped-#
The color of the microfluidic networks can change colors in visible and infrared ranges simultaneously, a quality color-changing organisms lack. These networks facilitate functions like actuation, camouflage, display, fluid transport and temperature regulation in soft robots. Tethers link the control system to the robot which pumps the pressurized gases and liquids. The pumping rate of 2.25 milliliters per minute allows the robot to switch color in a matter of 30 seconds. Once filled, the robot does not require power to sustain the color.
DARPA's original purpose behind the research was to provide efficient robots for a wide range of future defense missions but the medical applications of these soft robots have not escaped the notice of Researchers. The device's ability to simulate fluid vessels and muscle motion for realistic modeling or training can be of great use in prosthetic technology.
Below is a demo of the DARPA robot performing its conjuring tricks.
https://youtu.be/LpOl_pEmRqs
Source: GSNÂ Image Credit: #-Link-Snipped-#
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