In a major leap for adaptive robotics, researchers at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) have developed a programmable robotic sheet that can change shape, move, and grasp objects, all without mechanical hinges or external reconstruction.<\/p>\n
The innovation could pave the way for next-generation robots that physically adapt to their environment in real time.<\/p>\n
Led by Professors Kim Jeong and Park In-kyu of KAIST\u2019s Department of Mechanical Engineering, the team unveiled what they call a \u201cfield-programmable robotic folding sheet.\u201d The work combines physical artificial intelligence with software-controlled reprogrammability.<\/p>\n
This approach offers solutions to a long-standing problem in robotics\u2014creating systems that can change form based on task or environment without needing to be rebuilt or redesigned each time.<\/p>\n
Folding without fixed hinges<\/p>\n
Folding-based transformation has been a go-to strategy in robotics for years. It\u2019s efficient, intuitive, and inspired by origami. But traditional systems rely on pre-designed hinges and fixed folding paths, limiting their flexibility and adaptability.<\/p>\n
The KAIST team overcame this by designing a thin, flexible polymer sheet embedded with a dense network of metallic resistors. <\/p>\n
These resistors act as both heaters and sensors. <\/p>\n
When heated, the material bends; when cooled, it resets. This dual-function network allows the sheet to fold, monitor<\/a>, and correct its movements without needing external sensors or actuators.<\/p>\n In contrast to earlier systems that required physical reconfiguration to switch tasks, this robotic sheet responds to software commands. <\/p>\n Users can reprogram the shape, fold positions, and directions on the fly using a simple interface. <\/p>\n