Amazing new robot arm can catch and release deep sea creatures without harm

[NelsonG]

Being able to snag the gelatinous or otherwise soft creatures of the deep ocean for study without harming them in the process provides researchers with a bit of challenge, a challenge Harvard's Wyss Institute may have overcome.

The new RAD sampler (RAD stands for rotary-actuated device) is an origami-style robotic claw-like machine that can track down the deep-sea creatures and close around them to create something like a globe that fully encapsulates and then releases the creature without harm. 

The device has been tested of depths between 1,600 and 2,300 feet while researchers plan to build a more heavy-duty version for rougher tests. Researchers also plan to eventually add cameras and sensors that will enable the device to collect data on the creature before release.  Read more...

More about Harvard, Wyss Institute, Deep Ocean, Science, and Climate Environment

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