Researchers from the University of Hanyan in Seoul have developed a groundbreaking technology inspired by the collective behavior of ants. This innovation has led to the creation of tiny magnetic robots that can work together in groups to accomplish complex tasks that single mechanisms cannot achieve.
Each microbot is a small cube measuring only 600 micrometers in height. These microbots contain ferromagnetic particles made from an alloy of neodymium, iron, and boron (NDFEB), allowing them to respond to magnetic fields and interact with one another. The choice of a cubic shape maximizes the contact area and enhances magnetic attraction.
Korean experts have devised a special on-site assembly method for mass production of these devices. Project manager Zhon Zhee Visi emphasizes that this new technology ensures precise adherence to geometry and consistent performance across all microbots.
During testing, a thousand of these metallic microbots working together were able to resemble a raft. In water, they demonstrated the ability to maneuver around objects weighing 2000 times more than a single device and transport them through the liquid. On solid surfaces, the robots successfully moved items exceeding their own weight by 350 times.
These microbots have also mastered the skill of overcoming high obstacles, climbing ledges five times their length by forming elongated chains. Similar to an anthill, the colony continues to progress towards a goal even if some robots are no longer functioning. This high level of system survivability is a key advantage of this robotic technology.
By adjusting the magnetization parameters, scientists can manipulate the robots into various configurations suitable for a range of tasks, from medical procedures to industrial applications.
Future applications of this technology include cleaning oceans of plastic waste by forming floating structures to capture small objects. In agriculture, the robots could deliver fertilizers directly to plant roots without affecting surrounding areas.
Moreover, the electronics industry is interested in utilizing these microbots for installing miniature components and accessing narrow spaces for intricate mechanism repairs.
Researchers are now focused on enhancing the autonomy of these robot colonies, aiming to teach them to navigate complex environments independently. This advancement could pave the way for autonomous transport systems using artificial intelligence to transport microscopic cargo to remote locations or conduct innovative medical diagnostics.