The robot could be a precursor to next-generation wearable camouflage which rapidly adapts to its environment.
Artificial camouflage – which has been continuously developed since the nineteenth century, largely for military purposes – is inspired by natural camouflage present in nature, such as in octopuses and chameleons. Natural camouflage normally relies on the mechanical action of muscle cells, while artificial camouflage can use a more diverse range of strategies to achieve colour changing.
Camouflage devices must be capable of conveying a range of colours which can be controlled on demand; this is a complex challenge when working with high-resolution camouflage patterns (necessary for larger devices) at the complete device level. This requires not only consideration of colour but also the selective expression of patterns to match backgrounds. The challenge is rendered greater by the need for the device to be flexible and robust, such that it can...