Researchers from Tampere University of Finland and the University of Pittsburgh in the US have created a miniature robot that mimics the aerial motion of falling maple seeds. This technology could revolutionize fields like search-and-rescue operations, studies of endangered species, and infrastructure monitoring. Working at the intersection of physics, soft mechanics, and material engineering, Professor Hao Zeng and Doctoral Researcher Jianfeng Yang are at the forefront of the Light Robots research group at Tampere University.  Zang and Yang utilized a light-activated smart material to manipulate the gliding behavior of an artificial maple seed, in collaboration with Prof. Essar M. Ravi … Continue reading Flying Robots Inspired by Nature: Finnish and U.S. Researchers Pioneer Light-Controlled Maple Seed Drones