Evo-bots: A simple, stochastic approach to self-assembling artificial organisms

Abstract

This paper describes an alternative path towards artificial life - one by which simple modular robots with novel hybrid motion control are used to represent artificial organisms.

We present a hardware implementation of this system, the evo-bots, a set of self-reconfigurable modules that operate on an air table.

The modules use a stop-start anchor mechanism to either rest or move. In the latter case, they emulate Brownian motion.

The modules can search for, harvest and exchange energy. In addition, they can self-assemble, and thereby form compound structures.

Six prototypes of the evo-bot modules were built. We experimentally demonstrate their key functions, namely hybrid motion control, energy harvesting and sharing, and simple structure formation.

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Experiment videos

Linear polymer formation experiment

Five evo-bot modules forming a linear polymer.

Trial 1

Trial 2

Trial 3

Trial 4

Trial 5

Trial 6

Trial 7

Trial 8

Trial 9

Trial 10

Stopping experiment

An evo-bot module stopping at a light intensity of 0.3 - 2.0V.

0.3V

0.4V

0.5V

0.8V

2.0V