Robots utilise insect traits

According to its developers, the concept is the first to show realistic insect-like characteristics at this scale and could pave the way for smaller and more robust designs.

Currently, microscale robots are largely formed from complex moving parts that are subject to wear from friction and jamming as a result of dust particles.

‘The complex moving parts ultimately limit their lifetime and confine their use to a controlled laboratory environment,’ said Jason Clark, an assistant professor of electrical, computer and mechanical engineering at Purdue University.

Clark has developed a concept using a solid-state muscle for microid legs and mandibles that allows the robots to move over environments such as sand or water.

This is done using a ‘tripod gait’ for walking - a technique used by most insects that enables them to remain stable over uneven terrain.

‘Because the microids are solid state without any discrete parts such as gears that wear due to frictional contact, they are likely to be long lasting and robust. If a microid were stepped on, it would probably just get up and walk away,’ said Clark.