Scientists at the University of California, Berkeley have created a tiny flying robot that measures just 9.4 mm in width and weighs 21 mg. The robot is designed to mimic the flight capabilities of a bumblebee, allowing it to hover, move vertically and horizontally, and hit small targets.
The robot’s power and control systems are separate from its body, reducing its size and weight. It uses two neodymium magnets to create lift when exposed to an alternating magnetic field. The balance ring adds stability, while varying the magnetic field strength controls movement.
To improve flight, the scientists plan to add sensors that can adjust for wind gusts. They also aim to reduce the robot’s energy requirements by using a weaker magnetic field. This innovation could lead to applications such as pollinating crops or exploring small spaces with ordinary drones.
Source: https://newatlas.com/robotics/worlds-smallest-untethered-flying-robot-magnetic-field