A collection of Massachusetts Institute of Technology engineers unveiled a next-generation flying microrobot capable of executing intricate acrobatic maneuvers and rapidly altering its flight path. As stated in the Science Advances article, the device, sized like a matchbox, performed ten flips in eleven seconds and exhibited a multiplied increase in velocity compared to previous models.
The apparatus weighs less than a paperclip and employs pliable artificial muscles that compel the wings to operate at a high frequency. The main breakthrough was not solely the mechanics, but also the control system relying on artificial intelligence. According to the creators, older versions moved slowly along predetermined routes, and tuning the controllers required considerable duration.
The new setup utilizes a two-stage method. At the initial level, a predictive control model figures out the best maneuvers considering thrust and lift limitations. At the second stage—a lightweight neural network trained on the outcomes of these computations—ensures swift responsiveness during flight, essentially mirroring insect behavior. This facilitated a 447% rise in speed and a 255% acceleration boost.
During trials, the microrobot withstood gusts of wind and stayed on its designated course. It also showed sharp, stepped directional shifts, which creatures use in nature to stabilize vision. This characteristic is viewed as vital for future mounting of cameras and other sensors onto the platform.
By the assessment of Professor Sarah Bergbreiter from Carnegie Mellon University, insect-scale flying robots are “closer than ever” to replicating the agility of living beings and moving from lab demonstrations to practical applications. The MIT team’s subsequent objective is creating a fully independent navigation system without relying on external tracking systems, reports new-science.ru.
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