Mori3
Creating a transforming robot capable of changing its shape to best adapt to new environments and unseen tasks.
V3, 2022
Cristoph Belke, Kevin Holdcroft, Anastasia Bolotnikova
Demo Duration:
2'
We introduce a polygon-based modular origami robot, capable of changing its shape to best adapt to new environments and unseen tasks.
The ability to change shape introduces complexity through the physical design; the robot consists of modules that must be able to function independently, as well as in connection and collaboration with other modules when connected into a complex structure. Moreover, the joints must be able to lift variable loads with synchronized control.
During the demonstration, you will see four independent Mori3 modules interconnected that coordinate to form a moving robot. These modules cycle between movements, moving each module both independently and synchronized across the robot. The structure cycles between lifting each leg, all legs, becoming fully flat, and standing up like a tripod.
This exposition demonstrates one of the many morphologies that can be constructed from modular origami robots. It shows that the modules are fully functional robots which can coordinate together to form a complete system.
Modular robots can adapt to various tasks, situations, environment and users, and thus provide easy to use tools to create needed robotic structure for any particular use-case. The Mori3 acts as a predecessor for future robots in space, where adaptability is necessary to overcome the unknown challenges of this difficult environment.
Materials:
Maxon motors, hall-effect sensors, micro-controllers, shape-memory alloys, PTFE composite frames, custom electronics