Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have developed an innovative solution to address the natural pollinator crisis. These small aerial robots , inspired by the anatomy of real insects, promise to transform agriculture through mechanical pollination.
Design and technology of robotic insects
The robots, which weigh less than a paper clip, have been designed with flapping wings powered by artificial actuators. These wings allow them to perform acrobatic maneuvers and stay aloft for more than 1,000 seconds, far exceeding previous versions . Kevin Chen, an associate professor at MIT , says this design improves both endurance and agility, bringing them one step closer to being applied in real-world environments.
The team has also optimized the robot to reduce mechanical stress on its wings, increasing its durability. With a more compact structure, these robotic insects can carry sensors or small batteries, which would allow them to operate outside the laboratory.
Sustainable agriculture in closed spaces
The main application of this technology is pollination in vertical farms and other controlled environments. This approach could change food production , increasing yields and reducing environmental impact. With their ability to perform fast and precise flights, these robots could complement natural pollinators and ensure the stability of agricultural ecosystems.
Despite the progress, the researchers acknowledge that there are still challenges to overcome. Real insects, such as bees, have a level of precision and efficiency that robots cannot yet match. However, the MIT team plans to continue refining their design to achieve longer flights and more complex maneuvers, with the goal of developing swarms of autonomous robots .
The integration of batteries, sensors and navigation capabilities could open the door to broader applications in the coming years, consolidating these robotic insects as key allies in the transition towards sustainable and technologically advanced agriculture .
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Source: MIT
Photo: Shutterstock
