Blobbot
iRobot has just released information on a new squishable robot. The “blob-bot” can change shape at will using a principle called “jamming”. Granular media (think small particles, like bits of sand or beads) flow easily like a fluid when their container is relatively unrestricted (imagine letting sand flow through your open fingers). However, when forced close together, the particles jam up against each other acting almost like a solid (imagine squishing a handful of sand). iRobot uses this property to their advantage. Engineers found that by placing a bunch of particles within flexible silicone skin, they could design jammable plates, which can gain or lose their flexability depending on their jamming status.
Combined with an inflatable actuator in the center of the robot, the blob can change shape and therefor move at will. Hopefully, iRobot will come out with some more details soon.
