Overview

• The AMOLF team in Amsterdam has developed a soft robot that moves autonomously without relying on electronics, AI, or centralized control systems.
• The robot is powered by continuous airflow, causing its tubular legs to self-oscillate and synchronize into rhythmic gaits for locomotion.
• It achieves speeds of up to 30 body lengths per second, surpassing the relative speed of a Ferrari, and adapts to obstacles and environmental changes like transitioning from land to water.
• Inspired by biological systems such as sea stars, the robot demonstrates decentralized coordination, with movement emerging solely from mechanical design and environmental feedback.
• Potential applications include ingestible microrobots for targeted drug delivery, wearable exosuits without processors, and robust mechanical systems for extreme environments like space.