FYI : Tube Robot Looks Really Useful

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The discussion highlights the simplicity and utility of the Tube Robot, drawing parallels to natural mechanisms like jellyfish nematocysts that deploy barbs explosively. Participants express interest in building their own versions, suggesting starting with a bicycle inner tube and compressed air. The historical context of the tube's design is emphasized, noting its evolutionary basis over millions of years. High-speed imaging of the rapid deployment process is mentioned as a fascinating aspect. Overall, the conversation underscores the potential for innovation by mimicking natural solutions.
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I am totally surprised by the simplicity and potential utility of this soft robot.
Perhaps this is old news but that would be self-descriptive. How long has this been around? I want to build one today.


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hutchphd said:
Summary:: I am totally surprised by the simplicity and potential utility of this soft robot.

How long has this been around? I want to build one today.
The principle of inserting a thin folded tube without friction has been around for at least half a billion years.
The nematocysts of jellyfish or sea anemonies are examples. Barbs and toxin on the inside become external after the explosive deployment.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cnidocyte#Structure_and_function

Start your experiments with a bicycle inner tube and compressed air.
 
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Baluncore said:
The principle of inserting a thin folded tube without friction has been around for at least half a billion years.
The nematocysts of jellyfish or sea anemonies are examples. Barbs and toxin on the inside become external after the explosive deployment.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cnidocyte#Structure_and_function

Start your experiments with a bicycle inner tube and compressed air.
"When the trigger is activated, the tubule shaft of the cnidocyst is ejected and, in the case of the penetrant nematocyst, the forcefully ejected tubule penetrates the target organism. This discharge takes a few microseconds, and is able to reach accelerations of about 40,000 g.[1][2] Recent research suggests the process occurs in as little as 700 nanoseconds, thus reaching an acceleration of up to 5,410,000 g.[3]"

OK, kind of off-topic. But, 5,410,000g !
 
DaveE said:
...thus reaching an acceleration of up to 5,410,000 g.[3]
The deformation would be something to see in a high-speed imaging of that!
 
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"everted"...great word
 

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