Shape-shifting

Researchers in the Netherlands have created mechanical structures that strangely shrink – or more precisely, snap inward – instead of stretching outward when pulled. This 'countersnapping' behavior could find use in tomorrow's soft robots.

Scientists in Australia have developed a jelly-like material with many of the properties of living tissue. A form of a hydrogel, it is self-healing, very strong and can change its shape – allowing it to mimic skin, ligaments, and bone.

The Shapeshifter concept is made up of a number of smaller robots, which can self-assemble into a larger machine and disassemble again as the mission calls for it.

Scientists have developed a new type of shape-shifting nanoprobe that can perform high-resolution remote biological sensing not possible with current technology. The nanoprobes are designed to provide feedback on internal body conditions by altering their magnetic fields.

The pine cone has inspired the creation of a new type of memory material.