Robot Metabolism. Credit Columbia University
Robot Metabolism: Scientists are developing machines that grow by using other robots.
Most robots today are built as single, solid machines. They can’t easily repair themselves, change their shape, or use materials from their surroundings to grow.
In contrast, living organisms can heal, grow, adapt, and even reproduce, abilities that help them survive and evolve.
While robot “brains” powered by AI are advancing quickly, their bodies are still closed systems. They can’t take in new materials to repair damage or grow bigger.
Researchers at Columbia University believe that for robots to adapt and change physically, they must be constructed from a small set of simple building blocks. This would let them take parts from other machines or their environment and drop damaged pieces.
Robot Metabolism. Credit Columbia University
They show this idea using a robot made from modular parts that connect like a truss. These robots can become larger, faster, and more capable by absorbing material from their surroundings or even from other robots. The team suggests that this kind of robotic “metabolism” could be key to building long-lasting, evolving robot systems in the future.
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