Futurity · Climate & nature

Tiny Robot Achieves Precise, Controlled Hops

Engineers have developed a small, lightweight robot named DirectHop capable of multiple sequential jumps with centimeter-level accuracy, enabling it to clear obstacles like stair steps.

Hopping locomotion is significantly more energy-efficient than flying, making hopping robots potentially cheaper for exploration tasks such as detecting gas leaks or monitoring agricultural conditions.

The DirectHop robot, weighing about one gram, uses a miniature electric motor and three folding legs to control its jump height. After landing, it can adjust itself for subsequent jumps.

This prototype addresses key challenges in hopping robot development: varying jump height, self-righting after landing, and performing multiple hops, according to researchers.

Unlike spring-loaded robots that offer less control over jump distance, DirectHop's motor directly powers its jumps, similar to a frog's leg muscles. Adjusting the motor's current allows for precise control over jump height.

The robot's design involves a motor spooling a fishing line to lift itself, with hinged legs extending to maintain stability. A roll cage helps it land upright, and a mechanism to shift its center of gravity aids in self-righting.

Current limitations include wired power supply and a lack of steering. Future work aims to incorporate onboard power, steering, and navigation capabilities for full autonomy, potentially enabling tasks like stair climbing.

Researchers envision producing these robots affordably, making them suitable for deployment in large numbers where the loss of some units would not compromise mission success.

AI-samenvatting op basis van de bron.