The Future of Robotics: Edible Robots that Swim
In a groundbreaking development, scientists at EPFL in Switzerland have created an edible robot that can move across the surface of water using biodegradable fuel and surface tension. This innovative technology offers a safe and nutritious alternative to traditional environmental sensors made from artificial polymers and electronics.
Applications in Environmental Monitoring
The team at EPFL plans to deploy these edible robots in large numbers, each equipped with biodegradable sensors to collect vital environmental data such as water pH, temperature, pollutants, and the presence of microorganisms. This data can be collected after deployment or accessed remotely through sensing technology.
This work represents the latest advancement in the field of edible robotics and robotic feeding. The Intelligent Systems Laboratory at EPFL has previously explored various edible devices, including soft actuators, control circuits, and conductive ink for monitoring crop growth.
The Science Behind the Edible Robot
The boat-shaped robot utilizes the Marangoni effect, similar to how some aquatic insects propel themselves on water’s surface. A chemical reaction inside the robot generates carbon dioxide, which then propels the robot forward by expelling the biodegradable fuel and reducing the water’s surface tension.
The components of the chemical reaction – citric acid and baking soda – along with the fuel (propylene glycol) are safe and commonly used substances. The external structure of the robot is reinforced with fish food, making it not only biodegradable but also potentially beneficial as food for aquatic life at the end of its life cycle.
Future Possibilities and Research Directions
By creating “left-turn” and “right-turn” variants of the robot, the researchers have enabled pseudo-random movements that mimic those of insects. This design allows for efficient dispersion of the robots across the water’s surface, making them ideal for delivering nutrients or medication to fish populations.
The team at EPFL, led by Dario Floreano, has published their research in Nature Communications, showcasing the potential of edible robotics in various applications. Floreano emphasizes the importance of exploring edible materials with targeted nutritional profiles for both human and animal health.
With the ongoing development of edible robots and the exploration of their capabilities, the future of robotics looks promising, with potential benefits for environmental monitoring, aquatic ecosystems, and beyond.