A group of researchers from France’s University of Bordeaux discovered that small, self-powered, mindless robots could work together to form a mobile corral.
Previous studies have shown that tiny robots with no computer in command have a tendency to act like gas molecules. In a confined space, they roam around aimlessly.
The team expanded this research by incorporating more robots into the mix, which were battery-powered, rod-shaped, colored bits of plastic. Measuring 4 cm in length, they each vibrate to propel forward at 30 centimeters per second.
By placing more robots into a confined ring, the devices started to form two groups at the edges. The membership of each group changed as well, due to their freeform movement.
Next, the team used a flexible substance as the ring’s outer walls. Results showed that the robots moved the whole ring (corral) around a flat surface, and could even manipulate their way through an obstacle course.
The team believes this study could help explain how insects and microbes handle complex operations. In addition, the research may aid future micro-robot designs that can move around in biological systems.
Read the article, “Boundaries Control Collective Dynamics of Inertial Self-Propelled Robots,” published in Physical Review Letters, to learn more.
Enjoy the video below, which demonstrates the mindless, pint-sized robots using teamwork to maneuver past obstacles.
