Abstract
Neuromorphic engineering is the approach to intelligent machine design inspired by nature. Here, we outline possible robotic design principles derived from the neural and motor systems of sea urchins (Echinoida). Firstly, we review the neurobiology and locomotor systems of sea urchins, with a comparative emphasis on differences to animals with a more centralized nervous system. We discuss the functioning and enervation of the tube feet, pedicellariae, and spines, including the limited autonomy of these structures. We outline the design principles behind the sea urchin nervous system. We discuss the current approaches of adapting these principles to robotics, such as sucker-like structures inspired by tube feet and a robotic adaptation of the sea urchin jaw, as well as future directions and possible limitations to using these principles in robots.
Highlights
Phylum Echinodermata is composed of the sea stars (Asteroidea), sea cucumbers (Holothuria), brittle stars (Ophiuroidea), feather stars (Crinoidea), and sea urchins (Echinoidea)
We will outline the few, but very interesting existing robotic approaches inspired by echinoderms in general, and possible approaches to robotics inspired by sea urchins not yet implemented
It is likely that the prominent skeletal plates of echinoderms have made it difficult for the “regular” ectoneural nervous system to reach the muscles, which necessitated the evolution of a second nervous system
Summary
Phylum Echinodermata is composed of the sea stars (Asteroidea), sea cucumbers (Holothuria), brittle stars (Ophiuroidea), feather stars (Crinoidea), and sea urchins (Echinoidea). All species within this phylum, apart from several predatory Asteroidea, are passive and highly efficient marine filter feeders, algal grazers, or detritivores [1,2]. Members of the Echinoidea have evolved a number of very interesting anatomical and neurobiological features, which we believe could inspire novel robotic designs. To illustrate this point, we will first outline some of the interesting neural and motor systems of echinoids, and how these affect, influence, and drive behavior. Due to the phylogenetic relatedness to their echinoid cousins, we will still discuss these studies as any findings are likely to translate across phyla
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