Researchers at the Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne or EPFL unveiled a Locust Inspired Jumping Robot during the IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation held at Pasadena, California in May 21, 2008.
This grasshopper-inspired robot weighs only 7 grams but can jump 1.4 meters, which is 27 times its size and 10 times more than any existing robot of its size and weight. Additionally, this jumping robot can be installed with tiny sensors allowing it to navigate rough terrain or to help in search and rescue operations.
Currently this robot is equipped with a tiny battery allowing it to do 320 jumps, but researchers said that these can be equipped with tiny solar cells that recharge itself in between jumps and allow this robot to explore remote areas further.
With its ability to navigate difficult terrains and overcome barriers, this grasshopper robot will be used to monitor pollution and changes in our environment.
Locust Inspired Jumping Robot Features:
EPFL
