World's Smallest Wireless Robot Developed
Chinese scientists have unveiled a wireless robot that they claim is the lightest in the world. One of its key features is the ability to change its shape for movement on land or in the air, according to the South China Morning Post.
This micro-robot, inspired by LEGO, was developed by researchers from Tsinghua and Beihang universities. It measures only 9 centimeters in length and weighs 25 grams. It can be deployed in challenging scenarios, such as during rescue operations in disaster-stricken areas.
The core of the micro-robot is a "morphing actuator" – a component that converts energy into force. The team notes that their new actuator can also be used in other fields, such as creating medical devices and components for virtual or augmented reality.
"Compared to other known wireless robots, ours has the smallest size, lightest weight, and fastest speed of land movement in the world... This advantage significantly boosts the robot's endurance at the same energy consumption and provides better adaptability to the environment," says Zhang Yihui, a professor of mechanical engineering at Tsinghua University.
During tests, the micro-robot flew over objects and landed, after which it switched to ground mode and continued moving. This configuration-switching system allows it to navigate slopes and other complex terrains at various heights.
Zhang also mentions that the micro-robot can be tailored for various applications, including environmental monitoring and access to high-risk environments. He further notes that if necessary, the robot will be able to switch to a mode for movement in water.
