World's Smallest Wireless Flying Robot Inspired by Bumblebees Developed

Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) in the USA have developed the world's smallest wireless robot capable of controlled flight, inspired by the movements of bumblebees. Measuring less than 1 centimeter in diameter and weighing 21 milligrams, the device does not contain a battery.

Inspired by Bumblebees

A striking milestone has been reached in the miniaturization race of robotic technology. UC Berkeley researchers designed a new microrobot inspired by the mobility capabilities of bumblebees.

Battery-Free and Magnetic Field Flight

The biggest obstacle for flying robots of this size—the weight of the battery and control electronics—was overcome using a different method. The device does not contain a traditional battery or motor system.

Much Smaller Than Previous Models

While it is known that the smallest of previous robots with similar flight capabilities was approximately 2.8 centimeters in diameter, the newly developed system reduces this size to about one-third.

Potential Future Use Cases

Senior project researcher Liwei Lin drew attention to the bees' hovering and navigation skills. The robot is planned to be used in artificial pollination and the exploration of hard-to-reach areas.

Current Limitations and Future Goals

The current prototype operates with a passive flight system and, lacking onboard sensors, cannot independently react to sudden changes in the environment. Researchers aim to reduce the size to under 1 millimeter.