Aerial and terrestrial locomotion control of lift assisted insect biobots

This paper presents results on remote control navigation of moths implanted with neuromuscular probes. We have previously demonstrated that the technique of metamorphosis based surgical insertions enables the concept of "insect-based" centimeter scale biobots. Here, we demonstrate for the first time, the control of gait with a radio controlled, balloon-suspended, electrode-instrumented Manduca sexta by altering the direction of turn through applied neuromuscular pulses. We also present sustained flight control in Manduca sexta with demonstration of take-off, controlled yaw, and controlled landing. The assist of the helium balloon for lifting payloads allows for a wide-range of application space where insect biobots can be deployed.