Researchers from the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC) have unveiled a groundbreaking insect-inspired robot dubbed the 'electronic cockroach,' as detailed in a recent Nature Communications study. Weighing just 1 gram and measuring 2 centimeters, this agile microbot mimics its biological counterpart's resilience, surviving forces up to 60 kilograms while navigating tight spaces with remarkable speed.
The robot's flexible exoskeleton, crafted from durable materials, allows it to fold under pressure and recover instantly—a feature critical for real-world applications. "Its design ensures vital components remain protected even in extreme conditions," explained Wu Yichuan, the study's corresponding author. With a speed of 4.8 body lengths per second and amphibious capabilities, the microbot can transition from land to water, adapting its legs into paddles.
Professor Peng Bei highlighted its unique control system: "Adjusting a single actuator's frequency directs movement trajectory, simplifying operations compared to multi-actuator models." Potential uses include disaster response, pipeline inspections, and confined-space operations, though challenges like its 20-minute battery life remain.
While commercialization hurdles persist, this innovation marks a leap forward in micro-robotics, offering a glimpse into future technologies that could save lives and streamline industrial tasks across Asia and beyond.
