Mechanosensory Control of Locomotion in Animals and Robots: Moving Forward
Abstract
While animals swim, crawl, walk, and fly with apparent ease, building robots capable of robust locomotion remains a significant challenge. In this review, we draw attention to mechanosensation—the sensing of mechanical forces generated within and outside the body—as a key sense that enables robust locomotion in animals. We discuss differences between mechanosensation in animals and current robots with respect to (1) the encoding properties and distribution of mechanosensors and (2) the integration and regulation of mechanosensory feedback. We argue that robotics would benefit greatly from a detailed understanding of these aspects in animals. To that end, we highlight promising experimental and engineering approaches to study mechanosensation, emphasizing the mutual benefits for biologists and engineers that emerge from moving forward together.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Pub Defense Publication
- Publication Date
- Jun 05, 2023
- Source ID
- 10.1093/icb/icad057
Entities
People
- Bradley H Dickerson
- Chris J Dallmann
- Claire Wyart
- Julie H Simpson
- Kaushik Jayaram
Organizations
- Army Research Office
- European Commission
- European Research Council
- Fondation Bettencourt-Schueller
- Fondation pour la Recherche Médicale
- National Institutes of Health
- National Science Foundation
- New York Stem Cell Foundation
- Princeton University
- Sorbonne University
- University of California, Santa Barbara
- University of Colorado Boulder
- University of Washington