Using a combination of theory and experiment, researchers
have developed a new approach for understanding and predicting how small legged
robots – and potentially also animals – move on and interact with complex
granular materials such as sand.
The research could help create and advance the field of
“terradynamics” – a name the researchers have given to the science of legged
animals and vehicles moving on granular and other complex surfaces. Providing
equations to describe and predict this type of movement – comparable to what
has been done to predict the motion of animals and vehicles through the air or
water – could allow designers to optimize legged robots operating in complex
environments for search-and-rescue missions, space exploration or other tasks.