What if robots could evolve independently, without any help from humans? Emma Hart, a professor of computer science at Edinburgh Napier University in Scotland, is talking about new technology that could make this possible. At a recent presentation, she outlined how her team is using “artificial evolution” to create robots that can self-assemble and adapt to any environment. This could usher in a new generation of exploration, as these robots are able to thrive in conditions that are too difficult or dangerous for humans.
Hart’s team is inspired by the three ingredients of biological evolution: variation, selection, and inheritance. By replicating these processes digitally, they are able to create robots that can evolve on their own. This process is still in its early stages, but the potential applications are exciting. For example, these robots could be used to explore other planets or the depths of the ocean, as they are not limited by the same constraints as humans.
While this technology is still in development, it is clear that Hart has very interesting ideas that could lead to something big. With artificial evolution, we may be able to create a new generation of robots that can help us explore and understand our world in ways that we never thought possible. Where could all of this lead us? Only time will tell.
Would you be comfortable with robots that can evolve on their own? The idea of robots evolving on their own is a fascinating one, and it will be interesting to see where Hart’s research takes us. With all of the advances in technology, who knows what we’ll be able to accomplish in the future.
YouTube: Self-Assembling Robots and the Potential of Artificial Evolution | Emma Hart | TED
Photo credit: The feature image has been done by Phuchit Aunmuang.
