Biomimicry 2

Biomimicry 2: Elysia robot

Green sea slug

The green sea slug absorbs chloroplasts in its own cells from green plants like kelp and algae. A process called kleptoplasty. The chloroplasts are able to live inside the slug and give the slug the opportunity to convert sunlight into energy.

Elysia robot mimics the chloroplast trick

The Elysia robot uses the same trick, it gets its energy by eating plant waste. The robot can embed the chloroplasts in its outer layer so it becomes a photovoltaic skin. This type of garden- robot is available as a DIY package. The user can customize the robot with a diversity of tools.