Tokyo 5th September : A team of international of researchers has developed an apparatus for remote-controlled cyborg cockroachesthat are equipped with tiny wireless control device that can aid in the inspection of danger areas or observe the environment.According to a paper that was published in the journal npj Flexible Electronics, the module is powered by a rechargeable battery that is attached to a solar cell that ensures a uninterrupted circulation of power through the battery.
“The team conducted experiments with Madagascar cockroaches that measure about 6 centimeters long.They placed the wireless leg-control unit as well as the lithium polymer battery on top of the insect’s thorax with a specially-designed backpack, which was designed on the body of an actual cockroach” LeKenjiro Fukuda, the lead researcher of the RIKEN Cluster for Pioneering Research (CPR).
Despite the mechanical gadgets, the ultra-thin electronics and flexible materials permit the insects to move around freely and create cyborg insect real-world possibility.
“Considering the deformation of the abdomen and thorax when moving around the hybrid electronic system of flexible and rigid elements in the thorax, and ultrasoft structures in the abdomen appear to be a feasible design for cyborg-based cockroaches,” Fukuda said.Fukuda.
Since abdominal deformation isn’t only a characteristic of cockroaches “our strategy could be applied to other insects such as beetles or flying insects such as cicadas in the near future,” he added.
Researchers have been trying to create cyborg insect models – partially insect and part machineto help in assessing dangerous areas or observe the environment.
However to allow the use of insects that are cyborg to be practical, the use of an on-board solar cells is the most effective option currently.
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