High-Speed, Maneuverable, and Terrain-Adaptive Micro-Robot with Tree Frog-Inspired Bionic Feet.

Area of Science:

• Robotics
• Biomimetics
• Micro-engineering

Background:

• Conventional micro-robots face limitations in propulsion efficiency and maneuverability for complex tasks.
• Adaptability in challenging environments is crucial for micro-robot applications like fault diagnosis and emergency response.

Purpose of the Study:

• To enhance the traction and locomotion performance of micro-robots.
• To develop a micro-robot with improved adaptability for complex environments.

Main Methods:

• A 7.5 mm micro-robot was designed, actuated by an electromagnetic linear motor.
• Tree frog-inspired bionic feet were fabricated using angled photolithography.
• The micro-robot with bionic feet (MRBF) was tested for velocity, slope climbing, and turning capabilities.

Main Results:

• MRBF achieved maximum velocities of 39 BL s⁻¹ (dry) and 28.5 BL s⁻¹ (wet), a 75% and 40% improvement, respectively.
• Slope-climbing capability increased to 21.8°, nearly doubling the original limit.
• A dual-MRBF system demonstrated rapid turning with angular velocities of ≈311° s⁻¹.

Conclusions:

• The integration of bionic feet significantly enhances micro-robot locomotion and adaptability.
• The developed MRBF system shows potential for in situ inspection in confined spaces, such as micro-aero-engine ducts.
• This approach offers a scalable framework for advanced micro-robot applications in aerospace, soft robotics, and autonomous sensing.