9621 Agnes Crossing, Lake Suzanneview, New Mexico Island 84604-9295.
The loss of pollinators such as bees is a major problem for global biodiversity and affects humanity, causing problems in food production. Researchers at the University of Tampere
The loss of pollinators such as bees is a major problem for global biodiversity and affects humanity, causing problems in food production. Researchers at the University of Tampere have developed the first passive flying robot equipped with artificial muscles. Can this artificial fairy be used for pollination?
The development of stimuli-sensitive polymers has opened up many material possibilities for the next generation of small, soft-bodied, wirelessly controlled robots. Engineers have known for some time how to use these materials to make tiny robots that can walk, swim, and jump. So far, no one has managed to fly them.
Researchers from the Light Robots group at the University of Tampere are currently investigating how smart materials will fly. Hao Zeng, a research fellow and team leader at the Academy, and postdoctoral researcher Jianfeng Yang have developed a new design for their project. FAIRY – Flying Aero-robots is based on a collection of materials that react to light.. They have developed a robotic polymer collector that flies with the help of wind and is controlled by light.
“This artificial seed is superior to its natural counterpart, equipped with a soft driver. The actuator is made of photosensitive liquid crystal elastomer that opens or closes bristles when exposed to visible light,” explains Hao Zeng.
The artificial fairy designed by Zeng and Yang has various biomimetic properties. Thanks to its highly porous (0.95) and light (1.2 mg) structure, it can easily swim in the air directed by the wind. Also, the stable generation of split swirl rings allows long-distance travel by wind.
“The fairy can be powered and controlled by a light source such as a laser beam or LED,” says Zeng.
This means that light can be used to change the shape of a small structure similar to a dandelion seed. The fairy can manually adapt to the direction and strength of the wind by changing its form. A light beam can also be used to control the takeoff and landing of this polymer assembly.
Next, the researchers will focus on improving the sensitivity of the material to enable the device to work in sunlight. They will also expand the structure to accommodate biochemical compounds as well as microelectronic devices such as GPS and sensors.
There is potential for even more important applications, according to Zeng.
“It sounds like science fiction, but the proof-of-concept experiments included in our study show that the robot we developed is an important step towards realistic applications suitable for artificial pollination,” he says.
In the future, millions of pollen-bearing artificial dandelion seeds could be freely dispersed by natural winds and then directed by light to specific tree parts awaiting pollination.
“This will have a huge impact on agriculture around the world, as the loss of pollinators due to global warming becomes a major threat to biodiversity and food production,” says Zeng.
However, many issues need to be resolved first. For example, how exactly is the landing site controlled? How are devices reused and made biodegradable? These challenges require close collaboration with materials scientists and people working on micro robotics.
Source: Port Altele
As an experienced journalist and author, Mary has been reporting on the latest news and trends for over 5 years. With a passion for uncovering the stories behind the headlines, Mary has earned a reputation as a trusted voice in the world of journalism. Her writing style is insightful, engaging and thought-provoking, as she takes a deep dive into the most pressing issues of our time.
