Robot snake that moves like a sidewinder could inspect sewage pipes

A robot snake that can slither across the ground could be used for rescue tasks or inspecting hard-to-reach places.

Snakes can get around in different ways. When on flat, slippery ground like a desert, some move by sidewinding, in which they undulate in a series of S-shaped bends. This can help by minimising their contact with the hot ground.

In more complex environments, they can roll in a spiral motion, which helps them avoid touching sections of the ground with their body. Until now, combining these movements …