Modular Mori3 tech may let astronauts construct the robots they want

June 20, 2023

1

In cramped spacecraft or house stations, there sometimes is not room to retailer a number of robots which can be every designed for a selected process. The Mori3 system was designed with that reality in thoughts, as it may be used to create various kinds of robots as wanted.

Developed by Prof. Jamie Paik and colleagues at Switzerland’s EPFL analysis institute, the Mori3 setup consists of a number of flat triangular modules geared up with electronics (akin to motors, batteries and sensors) and mechanical coupling mechanisms. In a course of referred to as polygon meshing, teams of those modules might be joined collectively alongside the perimeters, forming a single three-dimensional polygon-shaped robotic.

The dimensions and configuration of that polygon varies, relying on the duty for which the robotic is required. Amongst different issues, it will possibly stroll on 4 legs, type itself right into a robotic arm, or roll like a wheel. Moreover, a number of such robots can join to 1 one other if crucial, quickly forming right into a single bigger robotic.

An individual Mori3 module — A person Mori3 module

In accordance with the scientists, Mori3-based bots “are good at doing the three issues that robots ought to be capable of do,” specifically shifting round below their very own energy, interacting with human customers, plus dealing with and transporting objects. It’s hoped that they might in the end be used for duties akin to aiding astronauts inside spacecraft, or performing exterior repairs on their very own.

“Polygonal and polymorphic robots that join to 1 one other to create articulated constructions can be utilized successfully for a wide range of functions,” stated Paik. “In fact, a general-purpose robotic like Mori3 can be much less efficient than specialised robots in sure areas. That stated, Mori3’s greatest promoting level is its versatility.”

A paper on the expertise was lately revealed within the journal Nature Machine Intelligence. The system might be seen in motion, within the video beneath.