Robotic Mouse NeRmo: Redefining Quadruped Robotics

In a groundbreaking collaboration between research teams from the Technical University of Munich, University of Technology, Nuremberg, and Sun Yat-Sen University, China, a revolutionary mouse robot named NeRmo has been developed, boasting an innovative articulated spine. Crafted by designer Zhenshan Bing, this robotic rodent sets itself apart as the first-ever embodiment of a spine-centric quadruped.

Unlike its counterparts limited to leg-based motor skills, NeRmo’s flexible spine and tendons grant it unparalleled full-body control and stabilization. This design not only ensures a balanced frame but also endows the robotic mouse with agility and a gait closely mirroring that of a biological rodent.

This spine-centric approach marks a departure from traditional four-legged robots, elevating NeRmo beyond mere mimicry of anatomical features. While other robots exhibit robotic movements, NeRmo, with its spine and tendons, moves with a lifelike quality, boasting efficiency in turning and maneuverability comparable to its biological counterpart.

Developed with 3D printed components and powered by a Raspberry Pi brain, NeRmo goes beyond addressing the challenges faced by other quadrupeds employing spine enhancement, such as Boston Dynamics’ Cheetah robot. NeRmo’s sensory system enables autonomous decision-making and navigation, showcasing its adaptability in diverse environments.

As an experimental robot, NeRmo serves as a pivotal tool in comprehending spine-based quadruped locomotion skills. The research team, led by Zhenshan Bing, is optimistic about the findings, indicating that NeRmo’s development could inspire a new generation of small, agile-legged robots. The modular construction of NeRmo is not only cost-effective but also showcases the benefits of its articulated spine, allowing the robotic mouse to adjust posture, increase stride length for faster walking, and execute agile maneuvers within tight turning radii.