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Microrobots learn from ciliates

Researchers create microrobots that mimic the movement of ciliates, beating filaments propelled by green light. The robots exhibit wave-like movements and can potentially be used for medical applications, such as detecting and curing diseases.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Materials·DateFeb 25, 2016

Microbots individually controlled using 'mini force fields'

Microbots are controlled using individual magnetic fields from an array of tiny planar coils, allowing for independent movement and cooperative manipulation tasks. This technology aims to enhance manufacturing and biomedical research applications.

SourcePurdue University·JournalMicromachines·DateJan 12, 2016

These microscopic fish are 3-D-printed to do more than swim

Scientists at the University of California, San Diego have developed a new method to build microscopic robots with complex shapes and functionalities. The researchers created microfish-shaped microrobots that can swim efficiently in liquids, are chemically powered by hydrogen peroxide, and magnetically controlled.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateAug 26, 2015
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Here come the 'brobots'

Researchers have developed sperm-inspired microrobots that can be controlled by oscillating weak magnetic fields, enabling applications such as targeted drug delivery and in vitro fertilization. The robots consist of a head coated in a thick cobalt-nickel layer and an uncoated tail, propelled forward by magnetic torque.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJun 2, 2014

The first robot that mimics the water striders' jumping abilities

Researchers created a jumping robot that mimics the water strider's ability, allowing it to leap over obstacles and move at high speeds. The microrobot's design uses porous nickel foam to fabricate its legs, enabling it to jump more than twice its own length and weigh as much as 1,100 water striders.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJul 26, 2012

In new mass-production technique, robotic insects spring to life

Harvard researchers develop a new technique inspired by pop-up books and origami to mass-produce microrobots and electromechanical devices. The method uses layered and folding processes to create complex structures with flexible hinges.

SourceHarvard University·JournalJournal of Micromechanics and Microengineering·DateFeb 15, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Bionic microrobot mimics the 'water strider' and walks on water

Scientists develop aquatic microrobot that stands effortlessly on water surfaces, walking and turning freely. The robot incorporates improvements over previous devices, making it a prime candidate for military spy missions and water pollution monitoring.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJul 27, 2011

NIST contests in China put next-gen robot technologies to the test

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) hosted three robotics competitions to prove advanced robotics and microrobotics technologies. The Virtual Manufacturing Automation Competition and Mobile Microrobotics Challenge evaluated teams' ability to assemble components and navigate microbots, respectively.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateJun 8, 2011

Miniature auto differential helps tiny aerial robots stay aloft

Researchers at Harvard University developed a millionth-scale automobile differential for minuscule aerial robots. The PARITy differential generates torques up to 10 million times smaller than in a car, allowing the robots to balance aerodynamic forces and navigate unpredictable environments.

SourceHarvard University·JournalJournal of Mechanical Design·DateSep 2, 2010
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

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Thermal-powered, insect-like robot crawls into microrobot contenders' ring

Researchers at the University of Washington have developed an insect-like robot with hundreds of tiny legs, excelling in its ability to carry heavy loads and move in any direction. The robot's microchip and feet are heated by electrical currents, allowing it to curl and shuffle along at high speeds.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of Microelectromechanical Systems·DateJul 1, 2010

Robots big and small showcase their skills at NIST Alaskan events

The Virtual Manufacturing Automation Competition and Mobile Microrobotics Challenge demonstrated robotic capabilities for complex tasks like mixed palletizing and microassembly. The competitions aimed to advance robotic skills for future robots in various industries.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateMay 28, 2010

Is your microrobot up for the (NIST) challenge?

The NIST Mobile Microrobotics Challenge tests microrobots' agility, maneuverability, and ability to move objects through three competitions: a two-millimeter dash, microassembly task, and freestyle competition.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateOct 22, 2009
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Microrobots dance on something smaller than a pin's head

Researchers at Duke University have successfully assembled five micro-robots into a self-organized structure using global control and slight variations in device dimensions. The microrobots, measuring just 100 times smaller than previous designs, can move, turn, and circle together with precision.

SourceDuke University·DateJun 2, 2008