Inspired by the paper-folding art of origami, engineers made a single plastic cubed structure transform into over 1,000 configurations with just three active motors, hinting at versatile robotic structures for various applications, including space.
The researchers utilized a hierarchical concept mimicking natural layered muscle fibers, employing plastic cubes and hinges assembled through 3D printing and controlled by motors to achieve diverse shapes efficiently.
The plastic cubes could be manipulated by the motors to form tunnel-like and bridge-like structures, while the transformer bots demonstrated the ability to move in multiple directions and carry loads significantly heavier than their own weight.
Future efforts by the team aim to enhance the capabilities of the transformer bots, emphasizing continuous improvement and innovation in shape-shifting artificial systems.
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