Non-rigid, deformable robotic body

A method of forming a robot, comprising:

• aligning a plurality of cross sectional segments, the cross sectional segments aligned along a central axis, each cross sectional segment of the plurality of cross sectional segments having a flexible linkage to an adjacent cross sectional segment;
• extending a plurality of antagonistic members through each of the cross sectional segments at a parallel offset to the central axis, the antagonistic members configured for extension or contraction;
• and
• engaging each of the antagonistic members with an actuation source for independent movement, the actuated movement of one or more of the antagonistic members disposing the cross sectional segments out of a parallel alignment.

A method of operating a robot, comprising:

• forming an elongated body along a central axis, the elongated body formed from a flexible material for deformable movement offset from the central axis;
• extending a plurality of antagonistic members through the elongated body at a parallel offset to the central axis, the antagonistic members configured for extension or contraction;
• engaging each of the antagonistic members with an actuation source for independent movement, the actuated movement of one or more of the antagonistic members disposing the elongated body out of alignment with the central axis;
• and
• manipulating the plurality of antagonistic members to an unequal length for deforming the elongated body at an angle to the central axis.