The biggest limitation of tiny robots is, naturally, their size. The smaller the robot, the more difficult it is to develop components. Among the key challenges is finding a power source. Some systems utilize clever workarounds, like these cell-sized bots, which use a photodiode to access the minute level of electricity needed to do their jobs. More advanced systems, however, will require a devoted power source.
MIT this week showcased tiny batteries designed specifically for the purpose of powering these systems to execute tasks as varied as targeting drug delivery inside the human body to checking pipelines for gas leaks. The power source measures 0.1 millimeter long by 0.002 millimeter thick — roughly as thick as a strand of hair.
Despite the barely visible size, the researchers say the batteries can generate up to 1 volt, which can be used to power a sensor, circuit or even a moving actuator.
“We think this is going to be very enabling for robotics,” explained professor Michael Strano, who served as the paper’s senior author. “We’re building robotic functions onto the battery and starting to put these components together into devices.”
The systems are still tethered to an external device, though the researchers are convinced they will be able to design a version of the power source entirely enclosed by the little robot. The team is also working to increase the level of voltage the system can generate.
“This is going to form the core of a lot of our robotic efforts,” Strano added. “You can build a robot around an energy source, sort of like you can build an electric car around the battery.”