NC university researchers develop new remotely controlled cockroaches for SAR missions

Researchers from North Carolina (NC) State University have designed and developed a new search-and-rescue tool, which can be remotely controlled using a backpack electronic interface.

During a recent demonstration, the robot validated its capabilities while the researchers used its microcontroller to steer the bugs along a line that curves in different directions.

NC State assistant professor of electrical engineering Alper Bozkurt said, "Our aim was to determine whether we could create a wireless biological interface with cockroaches, which are robust and able to infiltrate small spaces."

"Ultimately, we think this will allow us to create a mobile web of smart sensors that uses cockroaches to collect and transmit information, such as finding survivors in a building that’s been destroyed by an earthquake."

The remotely controlled cockroaches have been designed for first responders to collect and transmit information, such as finding survivors in a building that has been destroyed by an earthquake, according to homelandsecuritynewswire.

Developed by Bozkurt’s team, the tool features microcontroller that monitors the interface between the implanted electrodes and the tissue to avoid potential neural damage.

"We decided to use biobotic cockroaches in place of robots, as designing robots at that scale is very challenging and cockroaches are experts at performing in such a hostile environment."