An earthworm-inspired robot to inspect complex pipelines
University of Michigan researchers have developed SPPIRO, an untethered soft robot inspired by earthworms, capable of navigating complex pipelines with varying diameters and sharp turns. Equipped with Kresling origami actuators, onboard sensors, and a self-mapping system, SPPIRO can inspect pipelines at speeds up to 9.5 mm/s vertically and 6.5 mm/s horizontally, outperforming existing untethered soft in-pipe robots. The robot uses liquid-metal-based sensors and an onboard camera to detect defects in enclosed pipes, though challenges remain in maintaining stability and accuracy in certain conditions.