M-Block can be attached to other parts thanks to an internal rotating system and a permanent magnet mechanism
The union is forcing, and under this motto these
robots
Cube-shaped show that they can work together to achieve a goal. With an internal rotating system, the M-Block prototypes developed by MIT can jump, scale and connect with other parts to create a larger structure.
Designed with permanent magnets, the reconfigurable robotic modular platform (M-Block) had been presented by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
six years ago Its operation follows the same premise, and several cubes can adhere to each other to form a larger piece or structure to perform tasks simply.
The prototype system has limited functions, but its creators hope to create more complex structures for assistance and monitoring tasks
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"There are robotic systems that use more complex mechanical movements that require many steps, but M-Blocks cubes can offer a scalable platform with a more accessible cost,"
said John Romanishin, the director responsible for the project. With a simple design, the cube can perform up to 24 different movements to move and communicates with other M-Blocks by reading a barcode.
For now, a group of 16 blocks can perform simple tasks, such as forming a line, following an arrow or luminous signs. Beyond the incipient movements that they can fulfill now, the researchers foresee a series of applications in inspection and assistance tasks in disaster zones. "In the middle of a fire, many robot blocks can be thrown so they can build a temporary staircase to rescue the victims," said the researchers behind the project.
ADEMS
. These are the robotic cubes that jump and join to create a new piece – LA NACION