Innovative Mini Robot from China: A Technological Breakthrough

Chinese researchers have unveiled a new wireless mini robot, claiming it to be the smallest and lightest in the world. One of its main features is the ability to change shape for movement on land or in the air, as reported by the South China Morning Post.

The mini robot, inspired by LEGO, was developed by scientists from Tsinghua and Beihang universities. It measures just 9 centimeters in length and weighs 25 grams. This device can be utilized in challenging environments, such as during rescue operations in disaster zones.

The core technology of the mini robot is a "morphing actuator" that converts energy into force. The team emphasizes that their new actuator could also be applied in various sectors, including the development of medical devices and components for virtual or augmented reality.

"Compared to other known wireless robots, ours boasts the smallest size, lightest weight, and fastest land speed in the world... This advantage greatly enhances the robot's endurance while maintaining the same energy consumption and provides better adaptability to the environment," said Zhang Yihui, a professor of mechanical engineering at Tsinghua University.

In tests, the mini robot flew over obstacles and landed, then switched to land mode and continued moving. This configuration-switching system enables it to navigate slopes and other complex surfaces at various heights.

Zhang also shared that the mini robot could be adapted for diverse applications, including environmental monitoring and access to high-risk areas. If necessary, the robot can also switch to a water movement mode.