RoboBees Could Pollinate Crops and Explore Disaster Sites

Mar-13-13 Researchers are working toward developing a swarm of robotic bees that could theoretically help pollinate crops if required.

Teams from Harvard and Northeastern University created the tiny bee-sized robots, called RoboBees, to determine if they could create a robotic bee colony. The first bee robots have been developed, and the teams are now working on ways to make them cooperate like an actual hive. The RoboBees feature specially designed artificial muscles and miniature sensors that will to allow them to process cues from the environment in order to make decisions. They are intended to be used as a swarm, coordinating their actions without relying upon a single leader.

Beyond their potential to augment the pollination of real bees, the RoboBees could be used for search and rescue, exploring hazardous environments and climate mapping.

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[INHABITAT.COM]
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