Multi-legged robots with 12-20 legs are preparing to change agriculture
Ground Control Robotics, founded by Professor Dan Goldman from the Georgia Institute of Technology, is preparing to bring unusual robots for agriculture to market, whose design is inspired by millipedes. These devices represent a completely new approach to automation of agricultural work.
The peculiarity of these robots lies in their unique structure — they have multiple segments equipped with motors. Which allows them to easily move through complex agricultural landscape. Professor Goldman calls the principle of their movement “robotophysical swimming.” The robot’s legs effectively overcome various obstacles, and drives extended to the sides provide stability even on the most uneven surfaces.
The main advantage of the multi-legged design becomes obvious when compared to traditional agricultural robots. While 4-legged or wheeled models often damage plants or get stuck in soil, GCR robots with 12-20 legs evenly distribute load on the soil and minimize contact with crops.
Such an approach to agricultural robot design not only increases their passability, but also significantly reduces the risk of crop damage during field processing.
