If the future is all about robots, will there be robot bugs? UC Berkeley has created and designed a “bot," if you will, that may be the first of the bug infestation, named Clash. This little guy is 10 centimeters long and weighs only 15 grams. Clash is a vertical and horizontal climbing robot that, due to his small and lightweight structure, is very quick on his six robotic legs. He just may be one of the fastest climbing bug-bots in existence. He is able to move upwards at 24 centimeters per second as long as the material he is climbing is cloth. Whether it be your clothes, your bed comforter, your couch or whatever your imagination can dig up….it looks like it would be entertaining!
Clash’s front four legs have small claws that grip the material while the two back legs provide direction and stabilization. The claws could be swapped with sticky feet, made with "Gecko Tape," so it can climb most surfaces. You will be surprised by the get up and go of this lively little bot! (see video)
Clash is the next-gen version of Berkeley's "Dash" robot. Aside from Clash, the climbing version of Dash, the team also made a flying configuration named "Dash+Wings." Taking the idea further, they made "BOLT," a cot that can walk and then fly. It is only a matter of time before we see the "Dash-Bolt -Clash+Wings," I have no doubt.
Eavesdropper
