Zurich, Switzerland – Researchers have unveiled the first robotic leg equipped with “artificial muscles,” allowing the machine to move with a human-like agility. The innovative design, featuring oil-filled bags, enables the leg to jump effortlessly across diverse terrains.
A leap in robotic movement
In a study published on Monday in Nature Communications, a video showcased a small, disembodied robot leg hopping over grass, sand, and rocks. This breakthrough could pave the way for future humanoid robots capable of assisting with mundane household tasks, according to co-author Robert Katzschmann, a robotics professor at ETH Zurich.
Conventional humanoid robots, built with motors and rigid metal joints similar to those used in factory settings, are not only extremely expensive but could also pose safety risks in domestic environments. “If one was to fall on you, it is going to be quite painful,” Katzschmann explained.
Towards a more humane robot
The vision for future robots extends beyond merely lifting heavy objects. “A future robot helper needs to be able to not just carry heavy things but also give someone a hug or shake hands,” Katzschmann added. This inspired the Swiss-led team to emulate the 600 muscles in the human body, aiming for a more fluid and agile movement.
The science behind ‘artificial muscles’
The robot leg employs electrohydraulic actuators, also known as “artificial muscles.” These soft actuators, resembling freezer bags filled with oil, come with attached electrodes. The contraction and expansion of the liquid more accurately mimic animal muscles, offering a significant improvement over traditional motors.
The electrostatic system allows the robot knee to use less electricity when bent, similar to a squatting human, as noted in the study. The leg’s design enables it to handle rough terrain more nimbly than its rigid predecessors, achieving jumps of nearly 13 centimeters (five inches), which is 40 percent of its height.
A new frontier in robotics
Research into electrohydraulic actuators is still in its infancy, having emerged only about six years ago. While the current simplistic leg can only jump in circles and not move freely, Katzschmann is optimistic about the future. He emphasized that the components for these artificial muscles are not expensive, and he hopes that mass production will accelerate advancements in the coming years.
Although robots with such artificial muscles are still a way off, this study marks a significant step towards more versatile and humane robotic assistants. The potential for these advancements could revolutionize the way robots interact in human environments, making them safer and more effective helpers.
This groundbreaking research underscores the ongoing evolution in robotics, promising a future where machines move more like humans and integrate seamlessly into our daily lives.