Scientists have long been trying to create robots capable of searching for survivors after natural disasters or exploring zones where it is dangerous for humans to be.
Over the years, dozens of such machines have been introduced, but almost none of them have been able to successfully pass final tests. For example, these devices can hardly move in disaster areas due to uneven terrain and numerous obstacles.
Scientists from Singapore seem to have found a solution. They proposed using cockroaches for search operations since these insects are resilient to extreme conditions, turning them into a kind of cyborgs.
Miniature electronic devices will need to be attached to the backs of cockroaches, which will be remotely controlled from a central computer. Signals are transmitted to the insects through electrodes located near their sensory organs, creating a kind of “brain-machine” interface that allows them to navigate complex environments.
Experts also presented an algorithm that allows controlling the entire group of cockroaches simultaneously. The system successfully passed a series of complex tests.
The authors of the study claim that cockroaches can be entrusted with complex missions that are dangerous for humans.
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