Let’s combine two of the creepiest concepts on earth and mash them together: spiders and robots. Okay, maybe robots aren’t that scary, but if you’re keeping up with the progression of artificial intelligence, the potential for them to take over the world is huge if you ask me.
Scientists have now developed a robotic spider that’s less than the size of a penny to help with surgeries. You have Harvard’s Wyss Institute to thank for this creepy-crawly conception, designated MORPH. MORPH produces small yet complex silicone microrobots that mimic the actions of the peacock spider. If you aren’t sure what a peacock spider does, it’s exactly what it sounds like. The robot uses micro fluids to lift its hind into the air like a peacock. Lucky for science, this robots only function is not only to dance.
The flexibility and small size of the MORPH spider bots are specifically designed for future advances in the medical field, specifically endoscopy and microsurgery. In addition to its silicon body, the robot can harden under UV lights to form a more rigid structure. So don’t think this is just some flimsy creation, because it can harden its exoskeleton if needed.
My only hope is these spiders stay in the medical field, and don’t traverse the real world. Who would want a spider crawling inside them for surgery anyways?
