A robot walks on water thanks to evolution’s solution

A team of researchers has developed a robot that can walk on water, inspired by the natural phenomenon observed in water striders. The robot's unique leg design, featuring a structure similar to the ones found on water striders' legs, allows it to stay afloat and move across the water's surface without sinking. The researchers used a combination of experimental and computational methods to understand the water-walking mechanism of water striders and apply it to their robot design. The robot's legs are made of a lightweight, water-repellent material that creates a force balance, enabling the robot to distribute its weight evenly and avoid submersion. This innovative technology has the potential to be applied in various fields, such as environmental monitoring, search and rescue operations, and even sports and entertainment. The successful development of this water-walking robot demonstrates the value of biomimicry and the insights that can be gained from studying nature's solutions to complex problems.