Bio-inspired robots now capable of self-repair

What’s next on the horizon for robotics? A new material that’s capable of self-healing could set the stage for advancements we’ve never seen before.  While many natural organisms are capable of self-repair, for the first time, robots and other devices will be, as well. The new technology is seen as an exciting new frontier by some — but for others, this could just be another grim reminder that humanity’s days as the superior species could be numbered. Moreover, you might question if it is wise to create robots that are essentially smarter, stronger versions of ourselves. Researchers from Carnegie Mellon University have developed a new “a self-healing material that spontaneously repairs itself under extreme mechanical damage.” They say their soft-matter composite material will boast a wide array of uses, which will reportedly include wearable computing, bio-inspired robotics and human-machine interaction. (Read more)

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