POLYMORPHIC ROBOT – 21108

A polymorphic robot, also called a shape-shifting robot, is designed to conform to its environment by altering its geometry. There are numerous designs that can accomplish this. A simple example of a polymorphic robot gripper is the active chord mechanism, which conforms to objects by wrapping around them.

Specialized track-driven robots can change their shapes in order to travel over rough terrain, or climb and descend stairs. Such robots can also alter their body orientation (horizontal or vertical). Some robots are shaped like snakes, with numerous joints that allow them to maneuver in, and reach into, complex work spaces.