To save Human Lives, Scientists develop worm-like Robots for Earthquake rescue operations

April 21, 2018:

This robot's movements are similar to that of an inchworm or caterpillar.

Lately Scientists have developed a soft, worm-like robot that changes shape in response to its surroundings, and can slip through narrow crevices.

Its this ability can help to search for survivors in the rubble left by an earthquake or bombing.

Design composed of ultra-thin deformable sensors, actuating electronics and temperature-sensitive artificial muscle that can adapt to the environment.

This robot's movements are similar to that of an inchworm or caterpillar.

Robot's potential applications range from surgery and rehabilitation to search and rescue in natural disasters or on the battlefield.

The researchers said their work, published in the journal Advanced Materials, took its inspiration from nature.

The prototype adaptive soft robot includes a liquid crystal elastomer, doped with carbon black nanoparticles to enhance thermal conductivity, on account of artificial muscle, combined with ultra-thin mesh-shaped stretchable thermal actuators and silicon-based light sensors.