Snakebot leaps 18-inch curbs in a single bound
OmniTread is a serpentine robot developed by a University of Michigan team for intended usage in "industrial inspection and surveillance" (workers: be on the lookout for snake spies!). It's tackled some impressive mobility feats such as traversing rough terrain, climbing pipes and stairs, spanning wide gaps, and climbing an 18-inch curb that's over twice its own height. It can move log-style by rolling, or inchworm-style by lifting its head or tail, as its specially-designed treads propel it forward. Divided into five box-shaped segments, the robot snake has joints containing bellows that expand or contract to allow turning and lifting. Peep the video below of the robotic worm doing its snake-like thang.
Video: Snakebot [WMV]
