[2511.14624] Active Matter as a framework for living systems-inspired Robophysics
Summary
This article explores the intersection of active matter physics and robotics, focusing on the challenges faced by bio-inspired robotic systems in achieving efficient locomotion and coordination in complex environments.
Why It Matters
Understanding the principles of active matter can enhance the design and functionality of robotic systems, leading to more efficient and adaptable robots that mimic biological processes. This research is crucial for advancing robotics in real-world applications, from swarm robotics to autonomous systems.
Key Takeaways
- Robophysics examines the physical principles governing living-like robots.
- Current robotic systems face limitations in efficiency and coordination.
- Incorporating active matter principles can improve robotic swarm performance.
- Bio-inspired designs can lead to better communication and shared purpose in robot collectives.
- Research in this area is vital for future advancements in robotics and AI.
Condensed Matter > Soft Condensed Matter arXiv:2511.14624 (cond-mat) [Submitted on 18 Nov 2025 (v1), last revised 16 Feb 2026 (this version, v2)] Title:Active Matter as a framework for living systems-inspired Robophysics Authors:Giulia Janzen, Gaia Maselli, Juan F. Jimenez, Lia Garcia-Perez, D A Matoz Fernandez, Chantal Valeriani View a PDF of the paper titled Active Matter as a framework for living systems-inspired Robophysics, by Giulia Janzen and 4 other authors View PDF HTML (experimental) Abstract:Robophysics investigates the physical principles that govern living-like robots operating in complex, realworld environments. Despite remarkable technological advances, robots continue to face fundamental efficiency limitations. At the level of individual units, locomotion remains a challenge, while at the collective level, robot swarms struggle to achieve shared purpose, coordination, communication, and cost efficiency. This perspective article examines the key challenges faced by bio-inspired robotic collectives and highlights recent research efforts that incorporate principles from active-matter physics and biology into the modeling and design of robot swarms. Subjects: Soft Condensed Matter (cond-mat.soft); Artificial Intelligence (cs.AI); Robotics (cs.RO) Cite as: arXiv:2511.14624 [cond-mat.soft] (or arXiv:2511.14624v2 [cond-mat.soft] for this version) https://doi.org/10.48550/arXiv.2511.14624 Focus to learn more arXiv-issued DOI via DataCite Submission history From...