Story perspectives

Northwestern's Metamachines: Resilient Modular Robots Redefine Robotics

3/29/2026

Summary

Story summary

Northwestern University researchers developed metamachines, modular robots that adapt to damage and navigate challenging terrain.
The design uses each leg as a separate robot, enabling continued operation if parts are lost.
Sam Kriegman, a roboticist at Northwestern University, calls the metamachines a new species with remarkable resilience.
The study highlights their ability to move in various ways and suggests the approach could redefine future robotics beyond traditional designs.

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Story summary

Northwestern University researchers developed metamachines, modular robots that adapt to damage and navigate challenging terrain.
The design uses each leg as a separate robot, enabling continued operation if parts are lost.
Sam Kriegman, a roboticist at Northwestern University, calls the metamachines a new species with remarkable resilience.
The study highlights their ability to move in various ways and suggests the approach could redefine future robotics beyond traditional designs.