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Voltron-Like Modular Robot Demonstrated

Posted by Zonk on from the i'll-form-the-sense-of-self-entitlement dept.

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."

4 of 84 comments (clear)

  1. Wii come in piece! by LiquidCoooled · · Score: 5, Funny

    Wii come in piece!

    Imagine a beowolf cluster of WiiMotes coming attacking you and you get the idea.

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    liqbase :: faster than paper
  2. Blazing Sword by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5, Funny

    Hopefully this robot will be smart enough to form it's blazing sword at the BEGINNING of a fight instead of waiting until it is getting it's ass kicked.

  3. Neat by sharkey · · Score: 5, Funny

    Found some more footage: modular robot.

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    "Outlook not so good." That magic 8-ball knows everything! I'll ask about Exchange Server next.
  4. 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