Chinese scientists have developed a wireless robot that they say is the world's smallest and lightest. One of its key features is the ability to change shape to move on land or in the air, the South China Morning Post reports.
The LEGO-inspired microrobot was developed by scientists and researchers from Tsinghua and Beihang Universities. The device is just 9 centimeters long and weighs 25 grams. It can be used in difficult environments, such as during rescue operations in disaster areas.
The basis for the microrobot is a "morphinized actuator" - a component that converts energy into force. The team notes that their new actuator could also be used in other areas, such as creating medical devices and components for virtual or augmented reality.
"Compared with other known wireless [land-air] robots, our robot has the smallest size, lightest weight and fastest ground movement speed in the world... This advantage significantly improves the robot’s endurance under the same energy supply, and at the same time has stronger environmental adaptability," says Zhang Yihui, professor of engineering mechanics at Tsinghua University.
In tests, the microrobot flew over objects and landed, then switched to ground mode and continued moving. This system of switching between different configurations allows it to move on slopes and other complex surfaces at different heights.
Zhang also says that he can make the microrobot suitable for a variety of applications, including environmental monitoring and access to high-risk environments. He also notes that the robot could be switched to water-based mode if needed.