In Advances in Space Research, 1 Nov (vol. 76, #9):
Chai, J. Mei, J. Gong, Y. et al. Analysis of a conceptual multi-node flexible small body lander: Bounce suppression and active control Pgs 5471 .2025.08.008
Again, landing on an asteroid is, in a vague enough sense, easy. The low gravity means time and speed are not a driver, and consequences are low. Still, Philae bounced, bounced again, likely bounced a third time, and eventually rested on its side, ruining most of its experiments.
Roboticists regularly propose multi-articulated designs, and here’s yet another. A multi-joint design is complicating, but allows enhanced dynamics, such as conformation to surfaces. Simply the act of flexing joints takes out modes, and explicit joint control isn’t strictly necessary. Still, the authors continue on to flexible landers with intelligent joint commanding. Actually trying to reduce bouncing and impact loads can pay off.