Researchers at Boston University have developed a robotic system that autonomously prints, tests, and analyzes small plastic structures. The aim is to discover the most efficient energy-absorbing shape. This robot, named MAMA BEAR, employs 3D printing and Bayesian optimization to iteratively refine each design.
Each printed structure is crushed and measured for energy absorption, with data recorded for further optimization. Over three years, MAMA BEAR has created over 25,000 structures, achieving a record 75% energy absorption efficiency, surpassing the previous 71%.
Developed by Professor Keith Brown and his team, MAMA BEAR’s extensive data informs various applications, including helmet padding for US Army soldiers. The robot’s designs balance strength and impact absorption, crucial for protective gear. This automated research method accelerates discovery, enabling experiments that would be impractical manually.
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Brown’s lab continues to innovate with other autonomous systems, such as nano BEAR and PANDA BEAR, exploring material behaviors and polymer efficiency. These robots leverage machine learning and automation for rapid research advancements.
The ongoing experiments aim to maximize mechanical efficiency and explore new applications, including recycling materials for sustainability. The team’s work has been published in Nature Communications, and you can read more about it at this link.
Source: eurekalert.org