A reconfigurable robot that can alter its shape to maneuver through tight spaces has been developed by researchers at the Robotics Systems Lab at ETH Zurich in Switzerland.

In addition to modifying its shape to pass through narrow spaces, the robot can reconfigure itself by widening its stance when handling heavy objects. Additionally, the robot’s triangular configuration makes the system capable of navigating uneven terrain.

The reconfigurable robot is detailed in the article, Design and Motion Planning for a Reconfigurable Robotic Base, which appears in the journal IEEE Robotics Automation Letters.

An accompanying video demonstrating the shape-shifting capabilities of the reconfigurable robot appears courtesy of the Robotics Systems Lab at ETH Zurich.

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