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M-Blocks 2.0 Self-Assembling Robots
I loved these modular robotic blocks that self-assemble into different shapes. I first wrote about them in 2014 when they first came out (see M-Block Modular Robots Assemble Themselves).
(M-Block Modular Robots Assemble Themselves)
Each M-block has a flywheel that rotates at 20,000 revolutions per minute (RPM), and uses angular momentum from a break to move around. These blocks use a built-in magnet to stick to each other and form a robust structure.Romanishin, the new paper’s lead author says this unique approach is inexpensive and easier to scale to a million modules:
"The unique thing about our approach is that it’s inexpensive, robust, and potentially easier to scale to a million modules. M-Blocks can move in a general way. Other robotic systems have much more complicated movement mechanisms that require many steps, but our system is more scalable and cost-effective."
(Via TheNextWeb.)
In his amazing 1920 short story The Metal Monster, Abraham Merritt imagines a robot that is constructed of smaller metal pieces able to move on their own.
Faster the cubes moved; faster the circle revolved; the pyramids raised themselves, stood bolt upright on their square bases; the six rolling spheres touched them, joined the spinning, and with sleight-of-hand suddenness the ring drew together; its units coalesced, cubes and pyramids and globes threading with a curious suggestion of ferment.
(Read more about Abraham Merritt's living metal cubes)
Scroll down for more stories in the same category. (Story submitted 11/5/2019)
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Related News Stories - (" Robotics ")
Robots Repair And Modify Themselves
'The overworked leg motor would have to cool down before he could work on it...' Harry Harrison, 1956.
Robot Janitors Get To Work
'A few mechanical cleaning devices crept here and there...'- Philip K. Dick, 1957.
Robots Learn To Install Charged Batteries Into Themselves
This is nothing new for science fiction fans!
Robot Rabbits Entice Pythons
'That little robot rabbit knew what it was talking about...' - JW Groves, 1950.
Technovelgy (that's tech-novel-gee!) is devoted to the creative science inventions and ideas of sf authors. Look for the Invention Category that interests you, the Glossary, the Invention Timeline, or see what's New.
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