NTU’s Cyborg Cockroach Innovation Cuts Rescue Prep Time to One Minute
NTU’s Cyborg Cockroach Innovation Cuts Rescue Prep Time to One Minute
According to The Straits Times, researchers at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) have unveiled a breakthrough robotic system that enables cyborg cockroaches to be readied for search-and-rescue missions in just over a minute—a dramatic improvement from the hour previously required. This advancement allows for quicker deployment in emergency situations and the potential to scale up production.
In March, ten of these cyborg cockroaches were used in Singapore Civil Defence Force operations in Myanmar after a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake. Although no survivors were found, it marked the first real-world humanitarian use of insect-hybrid robots.
NTU scientists, with support from the Japan Science and Technology Agency, developed an AI-driven system capable of identifying the optimal electrode implantation points on Madagascar hissing cockroaches in precisely one minute and eight seconds. The setup process includes strapping on electronic “backpacks” equipped with infrared cameras, sensors, and electrodes that control the insects’ movement.
Professor Hirotaka Sato of NTU’s School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering said that the new system automates a task that was once time-consuming and heavily reliant on operator skill. “Our innovation makes the dream of deploying large numbers of cyborg insects in real-life scenarios far more practical,” he explained.
The cyborg cockroach initiative is a collaboration between NTU, the Home Team Science and Technology Agency, and Klass Engineering and Solutions. Each 6cm cockroach is capable of navigating through rubble and identifying signs of life in tight spaces where conventional robots struggle due to bulk and limited battery life.
NTU also introduced a new-generation backpack that reduces the voltage needed to stimulate insect movement by 25 per cent without compromising control. This enhances power efficiency and prolongs the insects’ operational capabilities. In lab tests, the hybrids executed sharp turns over 70 degrees and reduced speeds by up to 68 per cent on command.
NTU says the Myanmar deployment demonstrated the real-world potential of these robotic insects and now plans to improve the assembly system further. “With learning from our field deployment, it’s now essential to create infrastructure that supports mass production and deployment,” stated Prof Sato, who added that the team is working with local partners to bring the system closer to industrial readiness.
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Featured Image: Indian Express
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