TED Tech
The future of machines that move like animals | Robert Katzschmann
Oct 27, 2023
"Robert Katzschmann, Builder of soft-bodied robots that imitate natural movements with artificial, silent muscles", discusses the future of biomimetic machines that move like animals and the potential use of living muscle cells in creating them. The podcast explores the design process and emphasizes the importance of integrating these robots safely with humans and respecting nature. It also highlights the benefits of bio-inspired robots in search and rescue operations and agriculture.
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Quick takeaways
- Biomimetic machines made of soft or living materials can closely imitate natural movements and operate more harmoniously in various environments.
- By further developing artificial muscles and utilizing living muscle cells, machines can become sustainable, biodegradable, and reduce emissions and pollution.
Deep dives
Advantages of Biomimetic Machines
Modern engineering has focused on rotating motors to power machines, but these motors are loud and disruptive to both humans and the environment. In contrast, nature exhibits smooth and quiet movements, and robotics professor Robert Kachman argues that we should adopt a biomimetic approach to machine design. Biomimetic machines made of soft or living materials can be adaptive, safe, and energy-efficient. Kachman and his team have developed a biomimetic robotic fish named Sophie that swims silently using artificial muscles. By replacing noisy motors and pumps with silent artificial muscles, biomimetic machines can closely imitate natural movements and operate more harmoniously in various environments.
