Abstract: According to some embodiments of the invention, a tensegrity robot includes a plurality of compressive members, and a plurality of tensile members connected to the compressive members to form a spatially defined structure without the compressive members forming direct load-transmitting connections with each other. Each compressive member has an axial extension with a first axial end and a second axial end and a central axial region. The tensegrity robot also includes a plurality of actuators, each attached to one of the compressive members within a corresponding central axial region thereof. The tensegrity robot also includes a plurality of controllers, each attached to one of the compressive members. Each actuator is operatively connected to a corresponding tensile member so as to selectively change a tension on the tensile member in response to commands from a controllers to thereby change a center of mass of the tensegrity robot to effect movement thereof.

Abstract: According to some embodiments of the invention, a tensegrity robot includes a plurality of compressive members; and a plurality of interconnecting tensile members connected to the plurality of compressive members to form a spatially defined structure without the plurality of compressive members forming direct load-transmitting connections with each other. The plurality of interconnecting tensile members forms a lattice, and the lattice comprises an elastic material.

Abstract: According to some embodiments of the invention, a tensegrity robot includes a plurality of compressive members, and a plurality of tensile members connected to the compressive members to form a spatially defined structure without the compressive members forming direct load-transmitting connections with each other. Each compressive member has an axial extension with a first axial end and a second axial end and a central axial region. The tensegrity robot also includes a plurality of actuators, each attached to one of the compressive members within a corresponding central axial region thereof. The tensegrity robot also includes a plurality of controllers, each attached to one of the compressive members. Each actuator is operatively connected to a corresponding tensile member so as to selectively change a tension on the tensile member in response to commands from a controllers to thereby change a center of mass of the tensegrity robot to effect movement thereof.