Researchers Learn Why Robots Get Stuck In The Sand -- And How To Keep Them Going
Tuesday, February 10, 2009 - 11:28
in Astronomy & Space
Today's advanced mobile robots explore complex terrains across the globe and even on Mars, but have difficulty traversing sand. A new study takes what may be the first detailed look at the problem of robot locomotion on granular surfaces. Among the study's recommendations: robots attempting to move across sandy terrain should move their legs more slowly, especially if the sand is loosely packed.