Who developed the autonomous microrobots?

Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania and the University of Michigan developed these autonomous microrobots.

How are these microrobots powered?

The microrobots are powered entirely by light, using miniature solar cells and generating electrical fields for movement.

What are the potential applications of these tiny robots?

Potential applications include monitoring biological processes, aiding medical diagnostics, and assembling micro-devices.

Home / Science / Grain-of-Sand Robots Powered by Light Developed

Grain-of-Sand Robots Powered by Light Developed

7 Jan

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Summary

Researchers created autonomous microrobots smaller than a grain of salt.
These robots independently navigate liquids using only light for power.
They combine sensing, computing, and movement in a single system.

Grain-of-Sand Robots Powered by Light Developed

Scientists have engineered groundbreaking autonomous microrobots, measuring just 200 by 300 micrometers. These devices operate independently within liquids, utilizing light as their sole power source. This innovation marks a significant leap, enabling programmable robots at an unprecedented scale.

The microrobots generate miniature electrical fields to propel themselves through fluids, a method suited for the microscopic realm. Unlike previous iterations requiring external guidance, these new robots integrate their own solar-powered processors. This allows for environmental sensing, communication through patterned movements, and autonomous task execution.

Potential applications span cellular-level biological monitoring, medical diagnostics, and the assembly of minuscule devices. Due to their cost-effective mass production, these microrobots promise to unlock new avenues for research and engineering in previously inaccessible microscopic domains.