Harvard Engineers Create Agile Micro-Robot Inspired by Springtail Jumps

The palm-sized robot combines walking and leaping abilities, achieving jumps 23 times its body length for navigating challenging environments.

The micro-robot, developed by Harvard's SEAS team, mimics the springtail's furcula mechanism to achieve remarkable jumping capabilities.
Using latch-mediated spring actuation, the robot stores energy in an elastic component that releases rapidly to propel it into the air.
The robot's top jump reaches 4.5 feet, or 23 times its body length, making it one of the most agile micro-robots relative to its size.
The lightweight, paper clip-sized design allows the robot to walk, jump, climb, strike objects, and scoop items, offering versatility in movement.
Potential applications include navigating hazardous or inaccessible terrains, such as in search and rescue or environmental monitoring missions.