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‘Odd’ objects that adapt and move without a brain

Researchers develop active metamaterials that can autonomously roll, crawl, and wiggle over unpredictable terrain, including uphill and obstacles. These 'odd' objects achieve motion through unusual interactions between motorized building blocks, demonstrating decentralized and robust locomotion.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Rapid rovers, speedy sands: Fast-tracking terrain interaction modeling

Researchers have developed a new model, Dynamic Resistive Force Theory (DRFT), to predict the locomotion performance of vehicles and other objects in granular media. The model captures diverse counterintuitive observations in granular locomotion, including behaviors seen in circular and 'grousered' wheel locomotion.