According to the scientists involved in a project to develop edible robots and robotic food, fully edible robots may become a possibility in the near future.
Food and technology have a strong connection. This can be seen through the growing number of advanced kitchen tools and the convenience of ordering any desired food with a simple tap on a smart device for home delivery.
Currently, a team of scientists is working on a novel approach that combines food and technology – they are creating robots and food that can be consumed.
A collaboration of scientists from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), Wageningen University, the University of Bristol, UK, the Italian Institute of Technology, and the Netherlands worked together on the “RoboFood”project. The goal of this project was to establish the groundwork for creating “truly edible robots”and robotic food.
By combining food science and robotic science, it is expected that edible robots will be able to provide life-saving nutrition to humans, administer vaccines and supplements to endangered animals, decrease farming waste, and even signal when the food is safe for consumption.
After hearing a comment from fellow researcher Jun Shintake, Director Dario Floreano was motivated to start the project. Shintake had pointed out that the primary distinction between robots and living organisms is that robots are not capable of being consumed by other living beings.
The initial concept later evolved into what is now known as RoboFood. Its goal is to build a collection of intelligent edible materials, advance the production of edible robots and robotic foods, and produce edible parts such as sensors and “mechanical structures.”
According to the official European Union website, the RoboFood project has been granted funding and is set to continue until September 2025. The team has made significant progress in finding edible alternatives for materials, as reported by the website.
Techtimes reported that scientists from RoboFood have found that starch and tannin can serve as a suitable alternative to glue, while gelatin and rice cookies can be used in place of rubber and foam.
Currently, RoboFood has successfully developed a drone composed of rice cakes, held together by edible oils and chocolates. This innovative drone is 50% edible and was inspired by the concept of utilizing drones not only for locating missing individuals or animals, but also providing essential nutrients during emergency situations.
For those wanting more, the RoboFood official website is available to explore and stay updated on their recent projects and advancements.
Leave a Reply