A tiny neuro-controller created by researchers at the University of Connecticut could provide more precise control of futuristic biobots, such as cyborg cockroaches that are already being tested for use in search and rescue missions inside collapsed buildings.
Scientists have spent the better part of the past decade exploring ways to tether live insects to miniaturized computer hardware so they can manipulate an insect’s movement. Such possibilities are of interest to the U.S. Department of Defense, search and rescue teams, and others.
Success has been limited and numerous technological challenges continue to exist. This is mainly due to the tremendous difficulty building robotic systems at such small scale and the challenge interfacing electronic hardware with the insect’s biological nerve tissue to initiate movement.
The neuro-controller micocircuit developed at UConn is part of a tiny electronic ‘backpack’ that can be attached to the insect with its wires connected to the insect’s…
For the rest of the article, please visit https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/09/180906123302.htm.
Last modified: September 11, 2018
