UCLA Develops Bipedal Robot Using Old Smartphones as Core Components
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The UCLA Robotics and Mechanisms Laboratory has created a small bipedal robot that utilizes discarded smartphones as its torso, eyes, and brain. This innovative approach eliminates the need for expensive components by leveraging the smartphone's camera, inertial measurement unit, and processor for vision and motion perception. The robot stands 48.3 cm tall, weighs 1.8 kg, and is powered by 13 low-cost servo motors.
This development is significant as it lowers the entry cost for bipedal robotics to approximately $400, excluding the smartphone. By replacing costly sensor suites with old phones, the project demonstrates a viable method for making robotics more accessible. The robot is currently learning various movements, including walking and following people, but it lacks independent conversational abilities.
Looking ahead, the PhoneBot's potential lies in its ability to utilize smartphones as consumable components, allowing for easier upgrades and replacements. If successful, this model could have a profound impact on the robotics development ecosystem, making it more sustainable and cost-effective for developers.
Original report
UCLA Team Transforms Old Smartphones into Bipedal Robot Brains
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