Scientists Have Integrated Crustacean Shells into Robots

In the past few years, we have covered plenty of unique bio-inspired robots. Most of them are made with non-biological materials like metals. Researchers from the Computational Robot Design and Fabrication Lab have come up with a robot with langoustine abdomen exoskeletons. They augmented langoustine abdomen exoskeletons with synthetic components. This manipulator can handle objects weighing up to 500g.

As EPFL researchers explain:

They achieved this by embedding an elastomer inside the exoskeleton to control each of its segments and then mounting it on a motorized base to modulate its stiffness response (extension and flexion). Finally, the team covered the exoskeleton in a silicon coating to reinforce it and extend its lifespan.

[HT]