Bat Robots: Researcher Builds Bio-Inspired Flying Machines

Robotic Search and Rescue: Inspired by Bats

Search and rescue operations frequently occur in environments presenting significant challenges to human navigators. These difficulties can stem from severe weather patterns, treacherous terrain, or hazardous conditions such as dense smoke or pervasive dust.

Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) are exploring the potential of bat-inspired robots to undertake these missions, thereby reducing the risks faced by human personnel.

Ultrasound-Based Obstacle Detection

Professor Nitin J. Sanket, alongside his team at WPI, has engineered compact, hand-sized flying robots that utilize ultrasound technology – mirroring the natural echolocation abilities of bats. These devices employ AI-driven software to effectively filter extraneous noise from the collected ultrasound signals.

This filtering process enables the robots to accurately identify obstacles within a two-meter radius, enhancing their operational capabilities in complex environments.

“Search and rescue is traditionally conducted on foot,” Sanket explained to TechCrunch. “Many individuals bravely venture into harsh conditions, risking their own safety to save others. We believe drones offer a viable solution, as they can rapidly cover extensive areas and demonstrate exceptional agility.”

From Biological Inspiration to Robotic Design

Sanket’s interest in aerial robotics and drone technology, and their potential for real-world applications, has been a long-standing pursuit. His doctoral advisor initially challenged him to develop the smallest possible robot, which ultimately steered his research towards biomimicry.

“We were compelled to reconsider the fundamental design of a drone,” Sanket stated. “This led us to examine biological systems, as nature consistently outperforms our current engineering capabilities. How do insects or birds achieve remarkable flight with limited processing power and relatively basic sensory apparatus?”

“Their visual acuity isn’t exceptional, and their brains are small, yet they accomplish incredible feats of flight. This observation prompted us to investigate these mechanisms, forming the basis of my PhD thesis.”

Early Prototypes and Shifting Focus

Initially, Sanket constructed a prototype robotic beehive comprised of miniature drones intended for flower pollination. However, he recognized the significant challenges associated with this application and redirected his efforts towards areas where biologically-inspired robots could deliver more immediate benefits.

This shift in focus ultimately led to the development of the current search and rescue robot project.

Overcoming Technical Hurdles

A primary challenge in creating the search and rescue robots was integrating the necessary sensors and flight technology without compromising the robot’s size, cost, or energy efficiency.

The team explored the use of low-power ultrasound sensors, commonly found in automatic faucets. However, the noise generated by the robot’s propellers interfered with the sensors’ ability to detect obstacles.

Mimicking Bat Biology

To resolve this issue, the researchers once again turned to bats for inspiration.

“Bats possess specialized tissues in their noses, ears, and mouths that dynamically adjust in thickness and density to modulate sound perception and emission,” Sanket explained. “We recognized the potential to replicate this functionality. We designed a 3D-printed structure to be positioned in front of the robot, effectively altering the sound’s shape, mirroring the bat’s natural process.”

Future Development: Enhancing Speed

With the robots now functioning effectively, the team is concentrating on improving their speed and maneuverability.

“We often prioritize replicating human cognitive processes,” Sanket observed. “However, we frequently overlook the remarkable capabilities of other animals, particularly those smaller than ourselves. Insects and birds, despite their diminutive size, exhibit extraordinary navigational skills, which often go unnoticed. As scientists, we should broaden our perspective beyond purely engineering solutions.”