Xenobots are programmable, living machines created by reprogramming the behavior of individual cells to perform specific tasks. These microscale entities can be designed using artificial intelligence techniques.
Xenobots address challenges in micro-robotics by leveraging the natural capabilities of living organisms for targeted applications, potentially reducing issues related to power consumption and environmental impact compared to traditional robotic solutions.
AI algorithms are used to simulate and optimize the design of these organisms from a pool of biological components, primarily skin and heart cells from African clawed frog embryos (xenopus laevis). The cells self-assemble into novel morphologies that can perform tasks such as moving towards targets or carrying payloads.
The manufacturing process involves culturing cells from frog embryos under controlled conditions. AI algorithms are used to design the initial cell configurations, which are then cultured in petri dishes until they self-assemble into functional organisms.
Cells are selected and reprogrammed by manipulating their behavior through electrical or chemical signals to form specific structures. These structures can be programmed to perform tasks such as moving towards a target or carrying small objects.
Field units draw low hundreds of watts; fabrication is energy-intensive due to vacuum baking and precise cell manipulation.
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