Researchers at Columbia University have developed a new concept — robotic metabolism. It is based on modular robots capable of adaptation, self-repair, and structural reconfiguration.

What makes this concept notable and important? Scientists believe it represents the future, as metabolism will allow robots to be independent of humans, especially in extreme conditions, and will contribute to the growth and development of technologies.

The concept of metabolism is based on several principles:

• A robot’s growth must be ensured by itself or by other robots composed of similar components.
• The process requires energy and resources from external sources.
• Modules must be equipped with a built-in battery and a special structure capable of expansion, contraction, and self-assembly.

If all conditions are met, the result will be an autonomous, independent robot capable of assisting humans even without their support.

Module integration

So-called truss links can combine to create two- and three-dimensional robots. The construction of the structure can occur at any stage of the experiment. For example, a two-dimensional structure becomes a tetrahedron. To accelerate the process, the robot adds another link to its structure, forming a ratchet mechanism.

Adaptation to conditions

Thanks to the presence of individual modules, robots with complex structures can reconfigure themselves, adapting to solve new priority tasks. For example, a robot can discard links with depleted batteries, replacing them with functional modules.

The concept of metabolism is an important milestone in the history of robotics. This technology will make robots more autonomous and resilient to harsh environmental conditions. In this way, machines will be able to operate independently in places where it is dangerous for humans to be.