This New Scientist magazine article features the ATRON prototype and discusses the capabilities, benefits, and potential advantages of using shape-shifting robots.
Shape-shifting robot shows off its moves by Will Knight (New Scientist)
This prototype design is being explored as systems to utilize as spacecraft and terrain exploration of other planets in our solar system.
This web page covers a project involving an existing example of modular robotics with eight modules. It contains links to its authors, demonstration videos, documentation, and slides about their work.
Locomotion Capabilities of a Modular Robot with Eight Pitch-Yaw-Connecting Modules by IEA Robotics
This book online on self-replication covers a broad range of technology, including experimental versions of self-reconfiguring modular robotics in section 8 of Chapter 3.
Kinematic Self-Replicating Machines by Robert A. Freitas Jr. & Raplh C Merkle
This article starts off by comparing Transformers to existing self-reconfiguring robotics and its principles, then discusses various versions for an audience of any level of technical background.
Size does matter, and they’re calling it ChemBots. See how DARPA is interested in & funding projects involving shape-changing robots. Its applications, biodegradability, and how caterpillar research is being used are discussed.
Futuristic Chembots Squeeze Through Small Spaces by LiveScience
Wondering how versions of modular robots are being classified? Check out this concise diagram which covers some of the topological and dimensional aspects. Versions and researchers in the field are alse included.
A General Classification of the Modular Robots by IEA Robotics