Slashdot Mirror


Voltron-Like Modular Robot Demonstrated

MattSparkes writes "The 'Superbot', a modular robot that transforms itself into different shapes in order to walk, crawl and clamber up inclines, has been demonstrated in at the University of Southern California. Each bot module is effectively a robot in its own right, and can move independently, flip over and rotate like wheels. They also have 3D accelerometers that let them know their precise orientation. The six sides of each module can dock with any other module. Once connected, the modules can communicate, coordinate shape changes and even transmit power. The bot's creators hope it will make a great working companion for places like, say, the Moon. Or Mars."

6 of 84 comments (clear)

  1. Stargate already did it by hack++slash · · Score: 2, Informative

    The Replicators.

    When the robots gain the ability to create more of themselves using whatever metal they can get their pliers on, then we'll be in trouble.

    --
    To do something right, you often have to roll up your sleeves and get busy.
  2. Change that Shape Baby by problemchild · · Score: 5, Informative

    I'm afraid the Japanese lump looks much better it even demonstrates the units changing shape which is what its about I think :)

    http://unit.aist.go.jp/is/dsysd/mtran/English/expe rimentE.htm

  3. Turn your volume down before watching the video!! by Assassin+bug · · Score: 3, Informative

    The robots have a high pitched and annoying sound! Consider my hearing checked!!

  4. Re:Not very impressed! by AndroidCat · · Score: 2, Informative

    Modula-2

    --
    One line blog. I hear that they're called Twitters now.
  5. Not Voltron-like... by crankyspice · · Score: 3, Informative

    This isn't Voltron-like at all; Voltron was originally one robot that was split into five pieces by the evil witch's spell!

    Why do I *know* that?!

    --
    geek. lawyer.
    1. Re:Not Voltron-like... by Akaihiryuu · · Score: 2, Informative

      Technically, there was only one. The two shows we know as "Voltron" in the US were actually two completely unrelated Japanese shows. "Lion Voltron" was Hyakujuu-ou Golion, while the "Vehicle Voltron" was Armored Fleet Dairugger XV. The two shows had absolutely nothing to do with each other. It was the translators that decided to make changes to try to tie them together. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Voltron