Energy-Efficient Mini-Robot Mugatu Transforms Search and Rescue

A group of scientists at the University of Carnegie-Mellon has developed a miniature robot called Mugatu, which is powered by a single engine and capable of independent movement. This innovative project, known as the lego project, presents new possibilities for the use of small robots in challenging and inaccessible locations, such as within complex machinery or in the aftermath of disasters.

Mugatu is the first two-legged robot that can be controlled by just one motor. It possesses the ability to initiate movement autonomously, maintain stability in its trajectory without external control, and execute controlled turns to the left, right, and forward. The design of the robot incorporates two rigid structures and a single drive, enabling Mugatu to perform intricate movements typically associated with larger robots.

The objective of this project, according to the researchers, is to simplify the walking mechanism of robots as much as possible. This breakthrough has the potential to adapt existing technologies for use on a smaller or larger scale, such as navigating through narrow pipes or transporting heavy loads. Furthermore, the implementation of a current sensor in Mugatu allows the team to evaluate the energy efficiency of its movements over specific distances.

The team of scientists aims to eventually shrink the size of the robots to that of a LEGO figurine. However, they acknowledge that this process will require time, as the mechanics of the device change when reducing its size. Nonetheless, the considerable simplification of the walking mechanism combined with one degree of freedom in movement makes this project particularly promising in the realm of creating highly efficient small robots.