A prototype shape-shifting robot, called ATRON, that can reconfigure its many individual modules to change its mode of locomotion on command has been developed at the Maersk Institute in Denmark.

ATRON is made of roughly spherical modules. Each one is split down the middle and can rotate one hemisphere using an onboard motor. The cells can also latch onto each using connectors placed at either end.

The coordinated movement of the cells enables the robot to change its shape and move itself along. The cells each have a computer and communicate with each other via an infrared link.

“We can envision it being used to inspect hazardous environments or in space exploration where they could replace devices such as the Mars rovers,” says Henrik Hautop Lund, who leads the research.

The scientist also hopes that modular robots could first find use as home entertainment. “A new concept in toys – and more advanced than say the AIBO dog,” he adds.

Via New Scientist and Robotics.
More info in the PDF.