Innovative Rolling Robot Inspired by Tumbleweeds Unveiled

A robot inspired by desert tumbleweeds, named HERMES, has been unveiled as a new generation of energy-efficient explorers for disaster zones. The Hybrid Energy-efficient Rover Mechanism for Exploration Systems, or HERMES, was developed by Sanjay Manoharan and his research group at the Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne in Switzerland.

The design draws from the aerodynamics and structural features of tumbleweeds, which are known for their ability to travel long distances by harnessing ambient wind. Through wind tunnel experiments, researchers discovered that tumbleweeds have a unique asymmetrical porosity, allowing them to create specific wake dynamics that enhance their maneuverability.

This knowledge was incorporated into HERMES, which features a lightweight shell with similar porosity and has proven to be more efficient than both natural tumbleweeds and artificial spheres. In tests, HERMES rolled along with minimal energy, navigating steep inclines and transmitting GPS data while using 48 percent less energy than traditional robots.

HERMES also incorporates a lightweight quadcopter for aerial maneuverability, ensuring that it remains functional even when wind conditions are poor. With further advancements, HERMES could assist in hazardous environments, such as disaster zones or even on other planets like Mars.

The research emphasizes an energy-aware philosophy, showcasing the potential of bio-inspired engineering in robotics, as stated in the report from Popular Science.