Tiny Robot Morphs Mid-Air for Long Journeys

Posted under: AI technologies
Date: 2023-09-15
Tiny Robot Morphs Mid-Air for Long Journeys

Engineers have developed an innovative solution for environmental data collection and atmospheric surveys: lightweight robotic micro fliers that glide in mid-air without batteries. Inspired by origami, these micro fliers weigh only 400 milligrams and efficiently change shape during flight using battery-free actuators and solar power. Released from drones, they can hover up to 131 feet above the ground. Bluetooth allows them to transmit atmospheric data like air temperature and pressure. These microfliers have the potential to revolutionize environmental monitoring by automating large-scale wireless sensor networks. Future iterations will feature bidirectional shape changes for more precise landings and additional sensors to collect data on variables like temperature, humidity, and air quality. This technology represents a significant advancement in environmental studies and atmospheric data collection.