Wind-powered robot set to explore hostile terrains

A space engineer who has helped create a 3D-printed robot powered by wind energy says it could help overcome some of the challenges of exploring hostile environments.

WANDER-bot, designed by researchers at Cranfield University in Bedfordshire, could spend long periods in deserts, polar regions and possibly other planets without needing a battery to power movement.

It means any electronic elements used for data collection or transmission could have their own smaller, lighter power source.

Dr Saurabh Upadhyay said it was a first step towards "low-cost, repairable and self-sufficient robots" which would explore places that were difficult or impractical for humans.

"There are many challenges when it comes to robotic exploration," he added.

"Battery capacity limits things like range, and technological complexity limits the ability to repair in an environment where human occupation would be minimal and their capability for manufacturing or maintenance is limited due to the harsh conditions."

The robot uses parts that are entirely 3D-printed, with the design deliberately simple to allow for quick repair and replacement, the university said.

Having made the prototype, Upadhyay and research associate Sam Kurian were now working to increase WANDER-bot's manoeuvrability.

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