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Robots Learn To Install Charged Batteries Into Themselves
Robots have for some time known how to recharge themselves (see Optimus Robot Can Charge Itself), but now robots are up to the task of swapping their old batteries for new ones, that is, replacing their own run-down batteries with fresh ones.
Imagine a humanoid robot autonomously changing batteries in a factory, working 24 hours a day.
— CyberRobo (@CyberRobooo) July 17, 2025
UBTECH's WlakerS2 is starting a new journey. Autonomous battery replacement, more compact and flexible than WalkerS1, faster and more human-like natural straight knee walking. Can't… https://t.co/ksKcMXUm7e pic.twitter.com/xVepIFqHHT
It turns out that there actually is a reference for this idea in science fiction! In the movie "Starship Invasions" (1977) a robot replaces its own power pack.
(Robot in 'Starship Invasions' replaces own battery)
Yes, thanks to the magic of the Internet, you can see this movie for yourself. It's quite an adventure, with big stars, LOTR fans. I've skipped ahead for the key moment.
Update 14-Aug-2026): The famous writing team of Earnest and Otto Binder - Eando Binder (get it?) - described this important feature of robots in their 1939 story I, Robot:
He taught me how to remove the depleted storage battery in the pelvic part of my metal frame when necessary and replace it with a fresh one. This had to be done every 48 hours. Electricity is my life and strength. It is my food. Without it I am so much metal junk. (Read more about robot replaces its own battery)
End update.
Scroll down for more stories in the same category. (Story submitted 6/23/2025)
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