Robot snake that moves like a sidewinder could inspect sewage pipes

Researchers have developed a robot snake that can move by sidewinding across flat, slippery surfaces or rolling in a spiral motion in more complex environments. The robot has potential applications in rescue missions or inspecting hard-to-reach places. The robotic snake uses sensors to detect nearby obstacles and adjust its movements accordingly.
The robot’s ability to move in a sidewinding motion could be particularly useful in desert environments, where minimising contact with hot ground is important. In experiments, the robot was able to navigate a desert simulation while avoiding obstacles.
The researchers also tested the robot’s spiral rolling movement on stairs, where the robot was able to climb while keeping its body in a spiral shape. The robot’s flexibility and maneuverability make it well-suited for tasks where other robots or humans may not be able to reach.
The development of this robot snake is part of a growing trend in biomimicry, where engineers draw inspiration from nature to create innovative technologies. By mimicking the movements of snakes, researchers hope to create more agile and adaptable robots that can navigate complex environments. The development of this robot snake has the potential to improve the efficiency and safety of rescue missions and other tasks that require access to hard-to-reach places.



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