A report presents a scenario for the proposed development of insectlike robots that would be equipped with microsensors and/or micromanipulators, and would be designed, variously, to crawl, burrow, swim, fly, or hop, to perform specific tasks in fields as diverse as exploration, micropositioning, and surgery. In part, the report reiterates and extends previous discussions of this concept from a number of previous NASA Tech Briefs articles and supporting documents, including those mentioned in the immediately preceding article. One notable feature not mentioned previously is a proposed hierarchical scheme in which insectlike exploratory robots would communicate with fewer larger, more-complex robots, and so forth up a hierarchy to a central robot or instrumentation system. The report discusses the historical background of the concept, presents an overview of the uses and functions of the robots, describes the objective and justification for a program of research and development, and summarizes the potential technological and economic advantages offered by the proposed robots. The report goes on to discuss the advanced fabrication, actuator, computer, sensing, computing and power-supply technology that must be developed and refined to implement insectlike mobility and functionality for various robotic tasks. A list of tentative development goals is presented; the final goal in this list is the demonstration of an insectlike exploratory robot in the year 2001 and beyond.
This work was done by Sarita Thakoor of Caltech for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. To obtain a copy of the report, "Insect-Explorer Technology Development: Exploration of New/Hazardous Territory," access the Technical Support Package (TSP) free on-line at www.techbriefs.com under the Machinery/Automation category, or circle no. 109on the TSP Order Card in this issue to receive a copy by mail ($5 charge).
NPO-20267
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
Development of small, mobile, special-purpose robots
(reference NPO20267) is currently available for download from the TSP library.
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Overview
The document presents a report on the development of small, mobile, insectlike robots designed for various specialized tasks, including exploration, micropositioning, and surgery. Authored by Sarita Thakoor for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, the report outlines a vision for these robots, which would be equipped with microsensors and micromanipulators, enabling them to crawl, burrow, swim, fly, or hop.
A key feature of the proposed system is a hierarchical organization, where smaller, simpler insectlike robots communicate with larger, more complex robots, ultimately connecting to a central robot or instrumentation system. This structure aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of robotic exploration and task execution.
The report discusses the historical context of insectlike robots, building on previous NASA Tech Briefs and supporting documents. It provides an overview of the potential uses and functions of these robots, emphasizing their versatility across various fields. The document also outlines the objectives and justifications for a dedicated research and development program, highlighting the technological and economic advantages these robots could offer.
To implement the envisioned insectlike mobility and functionality, the report identifies several areas requiring advanced development, including fabrication techniques, actuators, computing power, sensing technologies, and power supply systems. These advancements are crucial for achieving the desired performance and capabilities of the robots.
The report concludes with a list of tentative development goals, with the ultimate aim of demonstrating an insectlike exploratory robot by the year 2001 and beyond. This ambitious timeline reflects the potential impact of these robots on future exploration missions and other applications.
Overall, the document serves as a comprehensive overview of the proposed development of insectlike robots, detailing their design, functionality, and the technological advancements necessary for their realization. It underscores the innovative approach taken by NASA in exploring new frontiers in robotics, with the potential to revolutionize how tasks are performed in challenging environments.
