Caltech, the California Institute of Technology, has developed a groundbreaking robot called the Multi-Modal Mobility Morphobot (M4) that has the ability to change its shape to adapt to different modes of transportation. This RC car-sized robot is equipped with advanced electronics, powerful motors, and a small computer that enables it to make decisions on the most suitable form for each situation. In a recent press release, Caltech compares the M4 to the popular Transformers toys and movies, which is an apt comparison considering the robot’s ability to transform.
One of the key features of the M4 is its large wheels that can quickly and seamlessly transform into rotors, allowing it to take flight like a drone. This transformation happens in a matter of seconds, demonstrating the agility and versatility of the robot. In addition to flying, the M4 can also utilize its rotors to assist it in traversing steep slopes while using its back wheels for propulsion on the ground. These capabilities were highlighted in a paper published in Nature Communications.
Furthermore, the M4 can stand upright on two wheels and use them as feet when necessary. This allows the robot to navigate rough terrain or obtain better visibility of its surroundings. The inspiration for this design comes from various animals, such as meerkats and walruses, as demonstrated in the cute drawings featured in the Nature Communications paper. The robot is powered by a Jetson Nano CPU, which is an affordable and robotics-focused miniature computer developed by Nvidia.
The M4 was created through the collaborative efforts of Mory Gharib, a professor of aeronautics and bioinspired engineering at Caltech, and Alireza Ramezani, an assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering at Northeastern University. Gharib and Ramezani have successfully developed a robot that can achieve eight distinct types of motion, providing it with unparalleled mobility. The robot utilizes artificial intelligence to autonomously assess its surroundings and determine the most appropriate action to take. This level of autonomy and adaptability makes the M4 a potentially invaluable tool for tasks such as transporting injured individuals to medical facilities or exploring uncharted territories, including other planets.
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Caltech is renowned for its innovative robotic designs, and the M4 is just one example of their cutting-edge creations. Another noteworthy robot developed by Caltech is LEONARDO, a bipedal robot featuring propellers for arms. LEONARDO can utilize its propellers for flight or for providing stability while walking. It emits a unique sound that, according to onlookers, resembles spooky little ghosts. Caltech has also created a launchable transforming drone, which further illustrates their commitment to pushing the boundaries of robotics and transforming the way these machines operate.
In conclusion, Caltech’s M4 is an impressive achievement in the field of robotics. Its ability to change its shape to adapt to different environments and modes of transportation showcases the potential for robots to revolutionize various industries, from rescue missions to space exploration. With its advanced capabilities and autonomous decision-making, the M4 represents a significant step forward in the field of robotics and serves as a testament to Caltech’s commitment to innovation.
