Researchers are embracing chaos and nonlinear physics to create insectlike gaits for tiny robots — complete with a locomotion controller to provide a brain-machine interface. Biology and physics are permeated by universal phenomena fundamentally grounded in nonlinear physics, and it inspired the researchers’ work. The group now describes using a system of three nonlinear differential equations as a building block for central pattern generators to control the gait of a robotic insect.
‘Chaotic’ way to create insectlike gaits for robots: By using small networks of Rössler systems, a locomotion controller enables a brain-machine interface for a six-legged antlike robot.
