We received the news that the Massachusetts Institute of Technology researchers assembled a small robot consisting of a potted plant on wheels. So far, nothing different, but the fact that the pot has a plant and it is the one that controls the movements of the robot.
With electrodes attached to its leaves, the circuit detects the electrical modifications that occur when the plant receives light. Thus, the algorithm created to control the robot makes it “look for light” by moving the system accordingly.
In the MIT photo, we have the look of this interesting robot (which is an excellent theme for our readers as a project).
The author of the project talks about cyborg plants which could not only move but help man-made mechanisms and alike.
We wondered what an interesting idea would be to put a small carnivorous fly swatter plant in a vase and set it up on a robotic base or even drone and make it go after the annoying flies...
Right here in Brazil, especially in the southern region, we have the "sensitive" (mimosa pudica) that quickly closes its leaves when touched.
This plant has a rudimentary chemical nervous system which allows to communicate sensations captured to other parts of the plant.
Here is a plant suggestion that could be used on a mobile robot which could use the impulses of its leaves when they touch an obstacle.
In the plant world, we have many strange behaviors that could be the basis of new discoveries and artifacts created by technology. For those who like the theme, we have several articles on our website and even suggest the reading of the book "The Secret Life of Plants"
