NYU Researchers Built Inchworm Robot
The prototype, unveiled on September 14, 2026, uses fluid dynamics to navigate both terrestrial and aquatic environments.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Robotics
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On September 14, 2026, researchers at NYU Tandon revealed WorMa, an inchworm-inspired robot designed to traverse land and water. The soft-bodied, research-stage device relies on shifting internal mass to achieve movement.
Why it matters
The development explores amphibious locomotion through fluid-based center-of-gravity shifts, a method designed to enable navigation across diverse terrains. This research aims to prove the feasibility of low-cost, soft-robotics systems for environmental monitoring.
The 2.2-pound, 20-inch robot was completed over a four-month build period for a total cost of $300. Its core performance relies on a pump mechanism that shifts water between balloons in the head and tail to manipulate the center of gravity.
The players
NYU Tandon
An engineering school at New York University focused on robotics, materials science, and interdisciplinary research.
The details
WorMa utilizes a latex body that mimics the motion of an inchworm by alternating the distribution of its internal water volume. By remotely controlling a pump that transfers fluid between the head and tail, researchers shift the robot's center of gravity to induce movement. This soft-robotics approach allows the device to navigate through both water and across land, though the current model requires external control.
Timeline
September 14, 2026: The WorMa robot was revealed to the public.
The Tech Race
This development follows an ongoing research trajectory at NYU Tandon aimed at creating low-cost, soft-bodied robots capable of multi-terrain navigation. It highlights a shift toward using fluid dynamics as a primary actuator in small-scale mobile robotics.
The current prototype remains a research-stage device and is not yet available for commercial use or practical applications. Future versions are expected to include an onboard processor for autonomous decision-making and specialized diving capabilities for waterbed inspections.
The takeaway
The research serves as a proof of concept for affordable, soft-actuation robotics using fluid shifting. Future milestones to monitor include the integration of an onboard microprocessor and the performance results of the planned aquatic diving functions.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest innovations in Robotics emerging from institutional labs.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Washington Square News.
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