Saurabh Upadhyay, a space engineer at Cranfield University, is part of the research team behind WANDER-bot, a 3D-printed robot designed to move using wind energy rather than conventional battery power.
The prototype has been developed by researchers at the university as a potential tool for exploring locations where human presence is difficult or impractical.
It could operate for extended periods in environments such as deserts, polar regions and even other planets without relying on heavy batteries to move.
The project is intended to reduce both the weight and energy demands of robotic exploration, allowing electronic systems used for communication or data collection to operate using smaller power sources.
Saurabh has been working on the project alongside research associate Sam Kurian, as the team continues developing the prototype.
He said the technology addresses a number of technical barriers associated with robotic exploration.
Saurabh added: “There are many challenges when it comes to robotic exploration.
“Battery capacity limits things like range, and technological complexity limits the ability to repair in an environment where human occupation would be minimal and their capability for manufacturing or maintenance is limited due to the harsh conditions.”
The WANDER-bot prototype has been constructed entirely using 3D-printed components.
Experts say the design was deliberately kept simple so that damaged parts could be replaced quickly and easily during long-term missions in isolated locations.
A simplified mechanical structure could help ensure the robot remains operational even when access to advanced manufacturing tools or human maintenance is limited.
Saurabh said the project represented an early stage in developing more adaptable robotic systems.
He added the work was a first step towards “low-cost, repairable and self-sufficient robots”.
Saurabh also believes such machines could help scientists and engineers investigate environments currently difficult for humans to reach.
The researchers are continuing to refine the design following the completion of the first prototype.
It is understood further improvements to the robot’s design could help expand its potential applications in scientific exploration and environmental monitoring in extreme conditions such as deep space exploration.
