Towards enduring autonomous robots via embodied energy

Cameron A. Aubin, Benjamin Gorissen, Edoardo Milana, Philip R. Buskohl, Nathan Lazarus, Geoffrey A. Slipher, Christoph Keplinger, Josh Bongard, Fumiya Iida, Jennifer A. Lewis and Robert F. Shepherd ()
Additional contact information
Cameron A. Aubin: Cornell University
Benjamin Gorissen: Harvard University
Edoardo Milana: KU Leuven
Philip R. Buskohl: Air Force Research Laboratory
Nathan Lazarus: Army Research Laboratory
Geoffrey A. Slipher: Army Research Laboratory
Christoph Keplinger: Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems
Josh Bongard: University of Vermont
Fumiya Iida: University of Cambridge
Jennifer A. Lewis: Harvard University
Robert F. Shepherd: Cornell University

Nature, 2022, vol. 602, issue 7897, 393-402

Abstract: Abstract Autonomous robots comprise actuation, energy, sensory and control systems built from materials and structures that are not necessarily designed and integrated for multifunctionality. Yet, animals and other organisms that robots strive to emulate contain highly sophisticated and interconnected systems at all organizational levels, which allow multiple functions to be performed simultaneously. Herein, we examine how system integration and multifunctionality in nature inspires a new paradigm for autonomous robots that we call Embodied Energy. Whereas most untethered robots use batteries to store energy and power their operation, recent advancements in energy-storage techniques enable chemical or electrical energy sources to be embodied directly within the structures and materials used to create robots, rather than requiring separate battery packs. This perspective highlights emerging examples of Embodied Energy in the context of developing autonomous robots.

Date: 2022
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DOI: 10.1038/s41586-021-04138-2

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