Four-legged robot

Engineers have developed a four-legged robot that can climb the walls and ceilings of metal buildings. The device can move vertically up and even upside down on metal structures. It can be used for repair work on bridges, industrial tanks and buildings. The robot uses electromagnets and magnetic elastomers to move. These are hybrid materials composed of a rubber-like substance interspersed with magnetic particles. By turning magnetism on and off, the robot can cling to a vertical point on the wall with one foot and hold on while the other legs move, and then take the next step. The prototype is capable of moving at speeds up to 0.7 m/s, stepping over protruding beams, and carrying up to 3 kg of payload.