Automatic design and manufacture of robotic life forms

Abstract

In the field of artificial life, “life as it could be” is examined on the basis of understanding the principles, and simulating the mechanisms, of real biological forms. Just as aeroplanes use the same principles as birds, but have fixed wings, artificial lifeforms may share the same principles, but not the same implementation in chemistry. Stored energy, autonomous movement, and even animal communication are replicated in toys using batteries, motors, and computer chips.