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British engineers have created a device that simulates compression of the human heart, but it does not pump blood, but urine. During the process, electricity is generated, which is necessary Ecobot (test platform for autonomous vehicles) nutrition). Previously the same group of researchers from Bristol University (University of Bristol) has created four resting similar robots Ecobot. They used to get energy various wastes (rotten vegetables, sewage, manure, dead insects). In short, a source of electricity in perspective almost anything can become. Each prototype is designed powered by microbial fuel cells containing live microorganisms like those that function inside the intestines person or treatment facilities. Microbes digest waste and produce electrons, which then add up to an electric current. New version of Ecobot – a device with a volume of 24.5 ml, consisting of artificial silicone “muscles”. The pump is made of “intelligent” materials – shape memory alloys capable of take the original state after deformation. Stimulation artificial muscles using electric current forces them squeeze the soft center of the pump, which pushes urine to a height fuel cell robot. When the current stops flowing, the muscle returns to its original form. At this time from the reservoir fluid is pumped for a new cycle (according to the same principle the work of the heart occurs – relaxing, it holds more blood). Twenty-four fuel cells are stacked together and are able to produce enough power to charge capacitor, which causes a reduction in artificial heart pump. Despite the fact that the new device produces more electricity than it consumes, inventors from Bristol Robotics Lab do not yet consider it effective enough and are going to improve it. Read more about the latest version of Ecobot tells the publication in the journal Bioinspiration and Biomimetics. “In the future we hope to use these robots in urban conditions for remote sensing – they can help control pollution, says industrial designer Peter Walters (Peter Walters) from the University of the West of England. – They always can refuel from public toilets and urinals ”
Robots
