Zero-footprint eco-robotics: A new perspective on biodegradable robots

Fabian Wiesemuller, Aslan Miriyev, Mirko Kovac

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

9 Scopus citations

Abstract

Robots are viable candidates for automating environmental monitoring. However, potentially toxic and non-biodegradable materials comprising state-of-the-art robots may threaten vulnerable natural environments and limit robots' use in their monitoring. When expecting robotic platforms to become increasingly ubiquitous in the near future, new robot design approaches involving biodegradable and non-fossil-based materials are required to create robots with zero and near-zero environmental impact. Here we propose the material selection and application routes for material systems integrating sensing, actuation, communication, and computation. We highlight the out-standing potential of combining living cells in the design of zero-footprint eco-robots. Due to their natural responsiveness to external triggers and morphing capabilities, alone or in combination with synthetic counterparts, living cells may drastically increase the functionality of the designed robotic systems. The present paper introduces a concept of zero-footprint, transient eco-robotics and provides methods for selection of suitable materials combining structural and functional capabilities, including sensing, self-healing, and self-terminating. We suggest that these methods can build the foundation for future environmentally sustainable robotic systems, that follow the circular economy paradigm. We also emphasize the multidisciplinary nature of the zero-footprint eco-robot design, involving material scientists, biologists, and roboticists.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationAIRPHARO 2021 - 1st AIRPHARO Workshop on Aerial Robotic Systems Physically Interacting with the Environment
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
ISBN (Electronic)9781665433891
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Oct 2021
Externally publishedYes
Event1st AIRPHARO Workshop on Aerial Robotic Systems Physically Interacting with the Environment, AIRPHARO 2021 - Biograd na Moru, Croatia
Duration: 4 Oct 20215 Oct 2021

Publication series

NameAIRPHARO 2021 - 1st AIRPHARO Workshop on Aerial Robotic Systems Physically Interacting with the Environment

Conference

Conference1st AIRPHARO Workshop on Aerial Robotic Systems Physically Interacting with the Environment, AIRPHARO 2021
Country/TerritoryCroatia
CityBiograd na Moru
Period4/10/215/10/21

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Hardware and Architecture
  • Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition
  • Aerospace Engineering
  • Control and Optimization
  • Modeling and Simulation

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