Robotic Leg with Artificial Muscles Can Walk and Jump

In an exciting development in the field of robotics, researchers have developed a robotic leg that can jump across different terrains with both agility and energy efficiency. Remarkably, it does not need complex sensors to function effectively. It can perform high jumps and fast movements and detect and react to obstacles while offering more energy efficiency than a conventional robotic leg. 
 
The research was led by Robert Katzschmann from ETH Zurich and Christoph Keplinger from MPI-IS under the Max Planck ETH Center for Learning Systems (CLS) research partnership. Doctoral students Thomas Buchner and Toshihiko Fukushima were also co-authors of the team's publication in Nature Communications. 
 
Keplinger noted that while there has been significant progress in advanced controls and machine learning within robotics, advancements in robotic hardware have been slower. He said their study is "a powerful reminder of how much potential for disruptive innovation comes from introducing new hardware concepts," such as artificial muscles. 
 
Buchner explained that when voltage is applied to electrodes, they are attracted due to static electricity, similar to how hair sticks to a balloon rubbed against one's head. Pairs of these actuators attached to a skeleton mimic natural muscle movements seen in living creatures; as one muscle shortens, another lengthens. The team employed computer code communicating with high-voltage amplifiers, controlling which actuators contract or extend. 
 
The researchers claim this method is more energy-efficient than traditional motor-powered robotic legs, which consume more power maintaining bent positions. In contrast, temperatures remain consistent within electro-hydraulic legs since their artificial muscles do not unnecessarily convert energy into heat due to being electrostatically powered. 
 
Furthermore, this innovative leg can jump because it can explosively lift its weight—an important feature for adaptability necessary in soft robotics applications. It’s no different with living creatures,” Katzschmann said, illustrating his point, “Just think about stepping down from pavement onto road—if we couldn’t bend our knees, walking on uneven surfaces would be much harder.” 
 
Despite the promise of electro-hydraulic actuator research, it is still an emerging field and may not yet support heavy machinery on construction sites. However, researchers argue that they offer specific advantages over electric motors. The team acknowledges there's further work to be done but remains optimistic about their progress. 
 
Their innovation demonstrates how incorporating new hardware concepts like artificial muscles can revolutionize robotics, making them more adaptable and energy-efficient. It signifies a significant step forward in creating robots capable of navigating various terrains with agility akin to living creatures—an essential quality for many potential applications, from exploration missions on other planets to performing tasks in challenging environments here on Earth.