Shape-Shifting Terminator? U.S. Army Researches “Smarticles”

As reported in a recent Army release, researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology and Northwestern University have “taken a new approach to robot building, using “smarticles” that could lead to new ways for robots to move…”

Closeup of a smarticle, or a smart active particle, reveals 3D-printed arms, light sensor and servo motor output shafts that actuate the arms, at opposite ends of the smarticle body.   Photo 2 shows an interaction experiment. Images courtesy of Rob Felt, Georgia Tech.