Water-Walking Robot Can Leap From the Surface

Jul-31-15 A new robot able to mimic the abilities of the water-strider insect is the first to be able to leap off of the water’s surface.

The team created the robot using folding, self-assembling components and a catapult device inspired by fleas. By studying the motions of water-walking insects, the team determined that the creatures are able to leap off the water without breaking through the surface by maintaining leg contact with the water for as long as possible during jumping motion. With this knowledge in hand, the team was able to build a water-striding robot able to exert 16 times its body weight on the surface of the water without breaking through.

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[GIZMAG.COM]
[WYSS.HARVARD.EDU]

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