A group of researchers from the University of Bristol have developed insect-sized robots with wing flaps. Inspired by flying insects such as bees, the advanced technology does not require conventional motor gears for flying. 

The flapping microrobots pave the way for an array of functions, including search and rescue operations, environmental monitoring and searching areas of great damage or collapse.  

The robots, known as micro air vehicles, have an upper hand compared to drones due to their small size, ability to maneuver in compact spaces, and the ability to withstand air turbulence.  

Before the technology, conventional robots have used complicated gears and motors in order to facilitate wing motions. This made standard robots more heavy and complex.

Jonathan Rossiter, a professor of robotics at the University of Bristol, led the team of researchers that showcased an artificial muscle arrangement known as the liquid-amplified zipping actuator (Laza).

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According to the university’s website, Rossiter stated, “Making smaller and better performing, flapping wing micro robots is a huge challenge. Laza is an important step toward autonomous flying robots that could be as small as insects and perform environmentally critical tasks such as plant pollination and exciting emerging roles such as finding people in collapsed buildings.”

Lead author and developer of the system, Tim Helps added, “With  Laza, we apply electrostatic forces directly on the wing, rather than through a complex, inefficient transmission system. This leads to better performance, simpler design, and will unlock a new class of low-cost, lightweight flapping micro-air vehicles for future applications, like autonomous inspection of off-shore wind turbines.”

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Researchers also highlighted the cost-effectiveness and feasibility of the system. The system has sufficient capacity to fly a robot across a room at a speed of 18 body lengths per second. 

The technology uses certain forces to facilitate pulling or pushing objects without contact. Due to their consistent flapping ability, robots can undertake longer flights. 

The robot technology has also been featured on the official website of University of Bristol.