Key points from article :
A small robot that could one day help doctors perform surgery was inspired by the incredible grasping ability of geckos and the efficient motion of inchworms.
GeiwBot, the new soft robot moves on any surface- even up walls and over ceilings- by tapping into the ultraviolet (UV) light and magnetic force technologies.
First of its kind to operate without an external power source, allowing for remote control and versatility in hard-to-reach areas.
"This work is the first time a holistic soft robot has climbed on inverted surfaces, ... robotics innovation," said Boxin Zhao, professor.
"Nature is a great source of inspiration, and nanotechnology is an exciting way to apply its lessons." He stated.
The next stage is to create a climbing soft robot that is entirely powered by light and does not require a magnetic field.
The study was carried out at the University of Waterloo and was published in Cell Reports Physical Science.
