CLARI (Compliant Legged Articulated Robotic Insect)
CLARI (Compliant Legged Articulated Robotic Insect) is an insect-scale quadrupedal robot designed for navigating cluttered and confined environments through passive shape-morphing enabled by origami-inspired compliant exoskeleton. It deforms its body width from 34mm to 21mm to squeeze through narrow gaps, supports multiple gaits (trot, walk) at 1-10 Hz stride frequencies, and demonstrates locomotion in open terrain and laterally constrained spaces. Key features include modular leg design for potential expansion to eight legs, robust mobility over uneven surfaces, and future plans for sensor integration and untethered operation. Use cases encompass search-and-rescue in disaster areas, high-value asset inspection (e.g., engine interiors), environmental monitoring, and exploration of natural terrains mimicking insect adaptability
Robot Specifications
- Key FeaturesKey Features
- Top Features
- Other Features
Dimensions
3.4 x 3.4 x 2.1 cm (Neutral square shape); narrows to 2.1 cm width when compressed.
Weight
2.59 grams
Speed
Maximum speed approximately 0.06 m/s (60 mm/s) for the mCLARI variant
Runtime
Continuous (tethered)
Tethered electrical (no wireless)
Tethered control interface
Battery Life
N/A (Tethered)
Modular legs/sensors (future)
None
Available Countries
USA (research availability)
None
Available Colours
Prototype gray/black
Warranty Info
None (research prototype)
None currently integrated (Planned for 2026: Obstacle detection sensors, cameras, and skin-like sensor networks).
Image Gallery
Below images are from University of Colorado Boulder's official sources
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Q1. What is CLARI, and what problem is it designed to solve?
CLARI is a Compliant Legged Articulated Robotic Insect, an insect-scale quadrupedal robot developed by University of Colorado Boulder engineers. It addresses navigation in confined and cluttered environments by enabling passive body deformation to pass through narrow gaps.
Q2. What are the main capabilities and key features of CLARI?
CLARI features a modular design with four independently actuated legs driven by piezoelectric actuators. It demonstrates locomotion in multiple gaits and body shapes, including reconfiguration to squeeze through laterally constrained spaces.
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