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Flatworm-inspired robot nimbly navigates cluttered water surfaces


Published on 2025-02-19 16:02:25 - MSN
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  • Swimming robots play a crucial role in mapping pollution, studying aquatic ecosystems, and monitoring water quality in sensitive areas such as coral reefs or lake shores. However, many devices rely on noisy propellers,

The article from MSN discusses a new type of robot inspired by the locomotion of flatworms, developed by researchers at the University of California San Diego. This robot, designed to navigate cluttered water surfaces, features a unique propulsion system where it uses a series of small, wave-like motions to move across water. Unlike traditional robots that might use propellers or paddles, this flatworm-inspired robot employs a soft, flexible body that can adapt to obstacles, making it highly maneuverable in environments like ponds or streams filled with debris. The design not only allows for efficient movement but also reduces the likelihood of the robot getting stuck or entangled. This innovation could have applications in environmental monitoring, search and rescue operations, or even in exploring extraterrestrial water bodies. The robot's ability to mimic the natural, fluid motion of flatworms highlights a growing trend in robotics towards bio-inspired designs for enhanced functionality in complex environments.

Read the Full MSN Article at:
[ https://www.msn.com/en-us/technology/robotics/flatworm-inspired-robot-nimbly-navigates-cluttered-water-surfaces/ar-AA1zobqS ]
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