This Micro Insect Robot Uses Artificial Muscles to Fly
Michael Hemsworth — February 8, 2022 — Tech
References: mit.edu & yankodesign
This micro insect robot has been developed by a team of researchers at MIT as an efficient micro-robotic creation that identifies a new method of getting robots to take flight. The robot makes use of artificial muscles that can take flight when a low level of voltage is sent through them, which in turn enable the wings to flap like that of an insect. The units were tested extensively before the final design was achieved that resulted in a robot that weighs less than a gram, but flies for the longest amount of time with minimal error.
The micro insect robot was explained by MIT as part of a note from the researchers that said, "Each rectangular micro-robot…has four sets of wings that are each driven by a soft actuator. These muscle-like actuators are made from layers of elastomer that are sandwiched between two very thin electrodes and then rolled into a squishy cylinder. When the voltage is applied to the actuator, the electrodes squeeze the elastomer and that mechanical strain is used to flap the wing."
The micro insect robot was explained by MIT as part of a note from the researchers that said, "Each rectangular micro-robot…has four sets of wings that are each driven by a soft actuator. These muscle-like actuators are made from layers of elastomer that are sandwiched between two very thin electrodes and then rolled into a squishy cylinder. When the voltage is applied to the actuator, the electrodes squeeze the elastomer and that mechanical strain is used to flap the wing."
Trend Themes
1. Micro-insect Robots - Developing even smaller and more efficient micro-insect robots using artificial muscles for flight has a disruptive potential in the field of drones and surveillance.
2. Soft Actuators - Exploring the use of soft actuators made from layers of elastomer for artificial muscles can lead to disruptive innovation opportunities in prosthetics and robotics.
3. Voltage-driven Miniature Machines - Developing voltage-driven miniature machines, like the micro-insect robot, can revolutionize industries like medical devices, inspection and maintenance of equipment, and delivery services in hard-to-reach areas.
Industry Implications
1. Drones and Surveillance - Incorporating artificial muscles into micro-insect robots can create more advanced, efficient and smaller drones for surveillance purposes.
2. Prosthetics and Robotics - Using soft actuators made from elastomer can revolutionize prosthetics by creating lightweight, comfortable and responsive devices, and lead to more advanced robot designs in manufacturing and other fields.
3. Medical Devices, Inspection and Maintenance, and Delivery Services - Voltage-driven miniature machines can be used in the development of medical devices for tiny surgical procedures, inspection and maintenance of equipment in hard-to-reach areas, and delivery services in urban environments, among many other potential industries.
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