ETH Zurich’s innovative snake robot can reach the unreachable [Video]

Engineers at ETH Zurich have developed a mechanical snake designed to access and inspect areas that are unreachable by other robots, drones, or humans.

Named RoBoa, it combs through trash after disasters and maneuvers nimbly and effectively through tight locations like pipes or sewers.

The snake-like robot’s soft and pneumatic nature makes it safe for use in hazardous situations where sparks must be avoided, and explosions are a possibility.

RoBoa uses a unique growth-based locomotion system. It features a soft fabric tube that expands into environments while reducing friction and eliminating the need for traction. This design allows it to move over challenging surfaces like sticky, dirty, or gravel-filled areas.

Currently, RoBoa can extend …