science
Light-Powered Marble-Sized Robot Rolls Autonomously Like Tumbleweed
A spherical robot the size of a marble operates on light energy and moves without external input. The device mimics tumbleweed motion while allowing its path to be directed by light. It can also deposit seeds along the route it travels.
May 6, 7:59 AM·1m read1 source
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A spherical robot the size of a marble has been developed to run on light as its energy source. The device rolls independently in a manner that copies tumbleweed motion. Light can be applied to guide and adjust the direction of its travel. The robot is called Twirlbot. It carries the capacity to sow seeds in the areas it crosses during movement.
Specifications for the robot and its functions were presented in a study released in 2026. The work focuses on the combination of autonomous rolling and external light-based control.
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