[LINK] Fwd: [crimescenewriter] Shape-shifting robot forms from magnetic swarm

[Jan Whitaker]

> 
>http://technology.newscientist.com/channel/tech/dn13244-shapeshifting-robot-forms-from-magnetic-swarm.html?feedId=tech_rss20

Swarms of robots that use electromagnetic forces to cling together 
and assume different shapes are being developed by US researchers.

The grand goal is to create swarms of microscopic robots capable of 
morphing into virtually any form by clinging together.

Seth Goldstein, who leads the research project at Carnegie Mellon 
University, Pittsburgh, in the US, admits this is still a distant prospect.

However, his team is using simulations to develop control strategies 
for futuristic shape-shifting, or "claytronic", robots, which they 
are testing on small groups of more primitive, pocket-sized machines.

These prototype robots use electromagnetic forces to manoeuvre 
themselves, communicate, and even share power.

[snip]

Jan




Semi-finalist - Amazon Breakout Novelist Award 2008: The Truck - A 
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