In the aftermath of natural disasters, survivors will be reassured by the presence of bugs, especially since they could save their lives. Scientists have unveiled amazing micro wizard technology that will assist rescue teams in their search for disaster survivors. After a natural disaster like an earthquake or a Tsunami strikes a place, people are sometimes trapped underground or in collapsed buildings. The surroundings of the place are too unstable to send in rescue workers without endangering their lives, so the special beetles are the best alternative to discovering survivors.
Experts have found a way to strap miniature sensors to the back of small flying beetles and send on the reconnaissance missions. The sensors can be microphones, cameras or even gas detection sensors. These miniature sensors will not require a battery source; instead, they will be powered by natural means from specialized equipment that is capable of energy conversion.
A wafer-thin film of solar cell connected to the system converts the sun’s rays into electricity. This electricity source is not the only one as the purpose of the beetle is to enter dark spaces. Therefore, additional energy conversion equipment is embedded in the system to ensure it is always powered up. A thermo electric generator turns the insect’s body heat into electricity while a motion generator turns the insect’s wing movements into electricity. The University of Michigan team has designed technology which is capable of harnessing power from the wing movement of a green June beetle
The scientists can send the beetle with the attached system to explore the dark areas and hone in on survivors without the worry of the system failing. The micro controller posited near the head of the beetle will process the information it receives from the sensors.
Professor Khalil Najafi is confident that the bug also has military applications, spying in enemy territories and collecting valuable intelligence. The professor hopes that the testing for the new technology can begin next year and the true value of the micro wizard technology will be understood. Currently, the team is looking into patenting the technology and is seeking investors to contribute to the advancements they are making in science.
Via: The Sun
