A team of engineers from the University of California, Berkeley, has created a tiny flying robot inspired by bumblebees. Weighing just 21 milligrams and measuring less than a centimeter in diameter, this robot can hover, change direction, and even hit small targets.
The robot uses an external magnetic field to generate lift and control its flight path. Two small magnets are attracted and repelled under the influence of the magnetic field, causing the propeller to spin and allowing the robot to fly. The strength of the magnetic field is precisely controlled to ensure precise navigation.
While this robot is capable of impressive feats for its size, it lacks on-board sensors, meaning it cannot adjust its movements in real time. However, researchers are working to add active control capabilities, which would enable the robot to change direction and position in response to environmental changes.
This tiny flying robot is part of a series of insect-inspired robots developed by Lin’s team. Other notable examples include cockroach-inspired robots that can scurry across floors and “swarming” robots that work together like ants to achieve complex tasks.
Source: https://news.berkeley.edu/2025/03/28/uc-berkeley-engineers-create-worlds-smallest-wireless-flying-robot