This robot automatically tucks its limbs to squeeze through spaces

Researchers want to use these bots to learn more about locomotion in nature

A photo of a new type of robot that has a black box for a body and four legs that are helping it move down the hall.

Researchers created a new type of robot (shown) that can shorten its legs to traverse narrow paths.

E. Lathrop, M.T. Tolley and N. Gravish/Advanced Intelligent Systems 2023

Inspired by how ants move through narrow spaces by shortening their legs, scientists have built a robot that draws in its limbs to navigate constricted passages.