- Hard robots are vulnerable to breaking, and soft robots are slow, weak, and clumsy. Now, scientists have created a robot made up of both hard and soft parts that combines the best of both types. The idea of blending soft and hard materials in a robot's body came from nature.
- The researchers created the new robot using 3D printing, which creates items by layering materials such as rubber and plastic. The robot consists of a soft, three-legged body that absorbs impacts and a core that houses key components such as a battery, oxygen cartridge, butane cell, air compressor and a combustion chamber.
- Such leaping robots could one day come in handy in harsh environments too dangerous for humans, including space.
New Hybrid Robot Has Soft 'Skin' But Hard 'Guts'
7. 3. 15 by Alex Klokus