Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich (ETH Zurich) researchers have developed a unique method to help robots maintain an upright posture on uneven terrain. This innovative approach, developed in collaboration with the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems in Stuttgart, utilizes electro-hydraulic muscle technology to enable robots to traverse rugged landscapes with ease.
Early Successes in Robotic Stability
As early as 2022, ETH Zurich’s robotics team achieved remarkable success by teaching the quadruped robot ANYmal how to climb mountains without falling. The latest research collaboration between ETH Zurich and the Max Planck Institute has focused on overcoming the challenges of navigating uneven terrain.
Electro-hydraulic Muscle Technology
The researchers have developed a novel artificial muscle powered by a hybrid electro-hydraulic system. This innovative leg design offers several advantages over traditional electric legs, including the ability to adapt to different terrains automatically, faster movement, and higher jumps without the need for additional sensors or control devices.
The actuator mechanism is surprisingly simple. The research team describes it as a plastic bag filled with oil, similar to the material used to make ice cubes. Electrodes are then applied to these plastic bags, creating a setup reminiscent of a science project.
According to Thomas Buchner, a graduate student at ETH Zurich, When we apply voltage to the electrodes, they attract each other due to static electricity. Similarly, when we rub a balloon on our head, our hair sticks to the balloon due to the same static electricity.
The bags expand or contract based on the applied voltage. Unlike standard mechanical structures with electric actuators, this system does not produce a significant amount of heat. As a result, the actuator can help the system navigate uneven terrain and achieve higher jumps.
Advantages and Limitations
Compared to walking robots with electric motors, the electro-hydraulic muscle system still has some limitations. Currently, the leg is connected to a rod and can only jump in circles, without the ability to move freely.
Compared to walking robots with electric motors, our system still has some limitations. The leg is currently connected to a rod and can only jump in circles, without the ability to move freely, said Christoph Keplinger, a professor at the Max Planck Institute.
However, the researchers are confident that this technology has great potential for future applications. If we combine the mechanical leg with a quadruped robot or a humanoid robot with two legs, maybe one day, when powered by batteries, we can use it as a rescue robot, said Keplinger.
Conclusion
ETH Zurich’s innovative electro-hydraulic muscle technology represents a significant breakthrough in robotic stability and mobility. As this technology continues to evolve, it has the potential to revolutionize the field of robotics, making it possible for robots to navigate challenging environments with ease and efficiency.
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