Researchers are using the walking pattern of the animals to inspire new ways to walk.
- Study’s of the neutral networks controlling the legs of invertebrate’s revealed rhythmic nerve impulses that govern gait.
- This knowledge has been adapted into modular control elements.
- These are then transferred into robots to help mimic natural movement.
- Researchers in Europe have already produced a robot worm.
- The rhythmic pulses are known as central pattern generators (CPGs), these are the best known neutral circuits.
- CPGs allow the body to automate repetitive tasks.
- These repetitive tasks can be chewing or walking.
- Some initial input is required to start but then the repetitive motion runs on autopilot.
- Invertebrate’s neutral system is very simple compared to mammals; this makes it easier to map how the nerves connect.
- The research has allowed researchers to understand the ways in which CPGs generate the rhythmic impulses that help a spider or crab scuttle around.
- The impulses are being recorded.
- Usually robot makers get their robot moving by using a series of rules that dictate how legs move.
- CPGs autonomously generate rhythm without a rule, making it better at dealing with unexpected situations.
- CPGs make it possible to from a sub section of a limb rather than having to try define rules for all the limbs.
- Tests show that multi legged robots are more stable.
- They are a favourite with designers because they can concentrate on different section of the leg and design a mini CPG for ankle, knee thigh etc.
- The worm robot has eight sections.
- The control system came from letting the movement rhythm evolve in a simulator.
- The system was then downloaded to a robot.
- The robot undulated like a worm and moved with great ease.
- The journal Bioinspiration and biominmetics detailed the research.
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