Revolutionary microrobots: Chemnitz research is changing technology!

Revolutionary microrobots: Chemnitz research is changing technology!

The research team at Chemnitz University of Technology has developed a novel autonomous microrobot known as a smartlet. These innovative robots are just 1mm in size and have the ability to communicate and act in a coordinated manner in aqueous environments. Integrated electronics, sensors, actuators and energy systems make Smartlets a remarkable example of modern robotics. As the university reports, the results of this groundbreaking research were published in the renowned journal Science Robotics.

The smartlets are equipped with photovoltaic cells that power them, as well as micro-LEDs and photodiodes that are used for optical communication. Their manufacturing process is based on an origami-inspired approach that utilizes multi-layered materials. This allows the smartlets to be moved up and down using buoyancy forces and can enable complex multi-robot interactions, including synchronized movements.

Technological innovations and applications

Communication between the smartlets occurs via a “wireless communication loop” that works without the use of external cameras or antennas. This is made possible by decentralized control using customized silicon chiplets, also known as labelts. The possible applications of this technology are diverse and include water quality monitoring, minimally invasive medical diagnostics and the study of biological environments.

A key goal of the research team is to further develop the autonomy of smartlets by adding chemical and acoustic sensor modules. The vision is to create dynamic systems that form collective robotic organism systems. These developments could significantly expand the boundaries of robotics and open up new possibilities in human-machine interaction.

SMARTLETs and the potential of microelectronics

In addition to the Smartlets, the Chemnitz University of Technology has developed a self-folding microelectronic module, also called SMARTLET. This module combines functions such as power supply, actuators, sensors and communication capabilities in a compact format. Similar to biological cells in terms of functionality and size, SMARTLETs can be manufactured in large quantities on a wafer surface.

The technology of SMARTLETs allows complex functions and manufacturing recipes to be encoded, favoring replication and evolution in controlled environments. They can also self-organize and come together into larger, more complex systems, potentially forming artificial organisms. This was covered in a recent review in the journal Advanced Materials and highlights the contrast between mass-produced technology and sustainable ecosystems.

Research in this area makes a valuable contribution to the European Center for Living Technology (ECLT) in Venice, where collaboration across scientific communities is promoted.

Support from Fraunhofer IOSB

Developments in the field of robotics and autonomous systems are also supported by institutes such as Fraunhofer IOSB. This facility offers skills in autonomous systems and robotics, across both land, air and water domains. An important focus is on developing innovative technologies that put basic research into practice and provide tailored solutions that benefit from state-of-the-art sensor technology and AI algorithms.

The possible applications and innovative use of autonomous systems span various areas, including environmental protection, emergency management and the monitoring of critical infrastructure. Heterogeneous UxV teams are formed that are able to plan and carry out complex tasks independently and with optimized resources. Robot laboratories also enable the rapid testing and validation of new approaches, which increases the efficiency and safety of the systems.

The developments surrounding smartlets paint a promising picture of the future of robotics. These technologies could soon play a central role in many areas of life.