6-leg beetle

German scientists successfully built a 6-legged robot inspired by the rodent beetle, capable of traveling on a variety of terrains.

According to New Scientist, Hector's six-legged robot was produced by Axel Schneider of the University of Bielefeld and his colleagues. The initial process was to design a lightweight shell, then attach a 6-foot shell that contained 18 elastic joints.

6-legged Hector robot. Photo: New Scientist

Robot legs can be rotated or retained by some simple principles during programming. Because each leg can be elevated at different heights, Hector easily walks on a variety of terrains, including uneven surfaces such as gravel.

Inspired by the beetle, Hector can easily overcome the obstacle thanks to the impact sensor in the leg. In addition, it is also equipped with short-range cameras, sensors that provide location information of the body and the frontal area.

The prototype will be a useful tool for biologists in the study of animal movement.