Artificial Intelligence Finds Missing Ghost Ancestor of Humans
February 8, 2019
Liquid Metal Brings Soft Robotics One Step Closer to Terminator 2
By: Gaia Staff | May 2nd, 2018
In 1991, Terminator 2 introduced us to a “soft” robot made from then-futuristic shape-shifting technology arrived from the future — seemingly impervious to all weapons.
The special effects were stunning; the morphing metal shone like chrome and flowed like water. Bullets passed through the self-healing material as if it were butter.
Fast-forward to March 2018. Researchers at the University of Sussex in England have applied electrical charges to “liquid metal” allowing them to manipulate the material into 2-D shapes — so far, simple numbers and letters.
A computer controls the electrical activity so that the metal is programmable and dynamic. Simple, but with far-reaching implications for the soft robotics field.
SIGN UP FOR FREE VIDEOS AND THE LATEST FROM GAIA
Professor Sriram Subramanian, project head, said,“Liquid metal technologies are an extremely promising class of materials for deformable applications. One of our long-term visions is a programmable liquid metal that changes the physical shape, appearance and functionality of any object through digital control to create intelligent, dexterous and useful objects that exceed the functionality of any current display or robot.”
While a liquid metal terminator androids are a good ways off, researchers are considering possibilities like re-programmable circuit boards and conductive ink.
“The compelling evidence of detailed 2D control of liquid metals excites us to explore more potential applications in computer graphics, smart electronics, soft robotics and flexible displays,” said Research Associate Yutaka Tokuda.
Mind. Blown? Elevate your inbox with weekly articles from Gaia
There's More To You Than You Think
Travel down a new road with Gaia, a member-supported conscious media company. Join our community of seekers, dreamers, and doers to empower your own evolution. Discover over 8,000+ ad-free, streaming videos to inspire and encourage curiosity. Everything is waiting for you; which path will you choose?
Why Does A Conscious Company Charge?
Provide an ad-free experience, no exceptions!
Pay the bills without selling your personal information.
Produce, edit, and share thought-provoking original shows and videos.
Bring scholars, scientists, and even shamans into the studios.
Make Gaia accessible on your favorite devices.
Keep our community active and support its growth.
Choose your plan
Monthly
$11.99/mo
- 2 Week Free Trial
- /month after Trial
- Stream 8,000+ Films & Original Shows
- Ad-Free Streaming All Year
Best
Value
Annual
$99/yr
- 2 Week Free Trial
- Stream 8,000+ Films & Original Shows
- Ad-Free Streaming All Year
- Save Over Monthly
Live Access
$299/yr
- Livestream All Gaia Events
- Watch Live in English and Spanish
- Ad-Free Streaming All Year
- Unlimited Recorded Event Streaming
Prices in USD