A robotic wedding cake featuring dancing gummy bears powered by edible rechargeable batteries has been developed by researchers from École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) and the Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia. The innovative creation, known as RoboCake, was showcased at Expo 2025 Osaka as part of the EU-funded RoboFood project, a collaboration with pastry chefs and food scientists from EHL in Lausanne.
The centerpiece of the cake is two red gummy bears dancing on top, created by the Laboratory of Intelligent Systems at EPFL. These gummy bears, made from gelatin, syrup, and colorants, are designed with an internal pneumatic system that allows their heads and arms to move. Safe to eat and flavored with pomegranate, they add a whimsical touch to the robotic dessert.
Dark chocolate discs serve as the edible rechargeable batteries that power the RoboCake. Developed by researchers at the Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, these batteries are made with ingredients like vitamin B2, quercetin, activated carbon, and chocolate. Not only do they provide energy for the gummy bears’ movements, but they also power the LED candles on the cake, creating a visually captivating display.
Guests indulging in the RoboCake are in for a surprise as the first flavor they encounter is dark chocolate, followed by a tangy kick from an edible electrolyte mixed in. The collaboration between researchers and food experts aims to make the cake not only visually appealing but also delicious, showcasing the fusion of technology and gastronomy.
By incorporating robotic elements into a traditional dessert, the RoboCake not only offers a unique sensory experience but also highlights the potential for reducing electronic waste by using edible, safe-to-consume components. This innovative approach to food presentation demonstrates the intersection of technology and culinary arts, paving the way for future advancements in both fields.
The successful integration of edible rechargeable batteries, dancing gummy bears, and LED candles into a wedding cake signifies a harmonious blend of creativity, technology, and culinary expertise. As the RoboCake makes its debut at Expo 2025 Osaka, it showcases the cutting-edge research and collaborative efforts that drive innovation in the realm of food design.
Overall, the RoboCake stands as a testament to the endless possibilities that emerge when science, art, and gastronomy converge, offering a glimpse into a future where interactive and sustainable culinary experiences redefine traditional notions of food presentation.