Micro Robotics Laboratory

Small but clever robots modeled after insects

In a small world, gravity is weaker but such elements as friction and surface tension become stronger. This is why small creatures can easily jump from high places and walk on walls. Insects successfully live in such a small world, thanks to their effective compound eye, sensory hair and other functions. Insects can, therefore, be useful models for small machines. We aim to produce microrobots by imitating the body structure and nervous system of insects and by fusing MEMS (micro electro mechanical systems) a micromachine technology with mechatronics.

College of Engineering Mechanical Engineering Advanced Mechanical Engineering / Graduate School of Engineering and Science（Master's Program） Mechanical Engineering Course / Graduate School of Engineering and Science（Doctor's Program） Functional Control Systems Course

Faculty Name

NAGASAWA, Sumito

Keyword

Micromachines,Mechatronics,Robots

Laboratory location

Research Building TOYOSU Campus 4F 04C32-b

This lab is for this SDG activity:

STUDY FIELDS

Mechanical engineering
Electronic engineering

FOR SOCIETY

Microrobot applications are expected to include the inspection and repair of plumbing or narrow places where people cannot reach, and environment surveys of wide areas in planetary exploration. Also, many reasonably priced robots with the sole function of searching for people could be used in disaster-hit sites.

RESEARCH THEMES

Research on micromachine sensors modeled after insect functions
Research on micro servo apparatus made of shape memory alloy actuators
Research on scale effects of technologies for robots ranging in size from ultra-small to super large