Programmable Matter – 3D Catoms
A new innovation introduces 3D Catoms, the world's smallest shape-shifting microbots with advanced features like strong resilience and energy-efficient systems. Assembled with precision, these microbots offer modular and self-reconfigurable capabilities.
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A new innovation in programmable matter has been introduced with the development of 3D Catoms, shape-shifting microbots with features like maximized grip area, smooth rotation, and strong shell resilience. These microbots are the world's smallest at 3.6 mm in diameter and are assembled with micrometer precision using a Nanoscribe printer. They incorporate an energy-efficient electrostatic latching system and inductive power transfer for wireless inter-catom power sharing. The Catoms also include a modular computer with ultra-low standby power and a long lifespan, assembled in France using an industrialized process. The assembly process is fully automated to enable mass production with high precision machinery. The technology is part of an international consortium dedicated to providing modular and self-reconfigurable robots for professional use. For those interested in learning more, simulations and guided tours of the laboratory are available.
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12 commentsHowever, don't see any evidence that they have physical prototypes of multi-catom swarms. Seems like they're more interested in the controls side of it, which is itself a very difficult problem.
I imagine physical constraints (such as the amount of power needed to engage the device's electromagnets) would render real constructions impossible. I'd loved to be proved wrong, though.
This is basically the microbots from Big Hero 6
The Terminator 2 T-1000 was a kind of fine grained catom bot.
Anyone know what became of it?
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