Self-Soldering Connectors for Modular Robots

The connection mechanism between neighboring modules is the most critical subsystem of each module in a modular robot. Here, we describe a strong, lightweight, and solid-state connection method based on heating a low melting point alloy to form reversible soldered connections. No external manipulation is required for forming or breaking connections between adjacent connectors, making this method suitable for reconfigurable systems such as self-reconfiguring modular robots. Energy is only consumed when switching connectivity, and the ability to transfer power and signal through the connector is inherent to the method. Soldering connectors have no moving parts, are orders of magnitude lighter than other connectors, and are readily mass manufacturable. The mechanical strength of the connector is measured as 173 N, which is enough to support many robot modules, and hundreds of connection cycles are performed before failure.