Scientists from Osaka University in Japan and Diponegoro University in Indonesia have developed cyberthrackans, biohybrid cockroaches that can perform complex tasks in extreme conditions.
These tiny “robots” can enter narrow spaces, bypass obstacles, and transmit information from places inaccessible to humans. The work was published in the journal Soft Robotics.
The idea for creating cyberthrackans is based on a combination of the natural anatomy of cockroaches, honed over millions of years of evolution, and modern technology. Miniature electronic devices with motion, temperature, humidity, and obstacle sensors were installed on the backs of Madagascar hissing cockroaches (Gromphadorhina portentosa). In addition, the scientists implanted electrodes into their antennae, with which they can control the insects’ movements.
“Creating a full-fledged robot at this level is an extremely difficult task. We decided to get around this problem by making everything simpler,” explained the lead author of the work, Mohammad Arianto, a mechanical engineer from Diponegoro University. — “By simply attaching electronics to live cockroaches, we avoided the complexities of robotics and focused on the end goal.”
The control system, called BIOBBN (biohybrid behavioral navigation), is based on the principle of “reaching a goal while avoiding obstacles.” It includes two navigation algorithms: one designed for simple conditions, and one for complex routes with obstacles.
During the tests, the cyberroaches were placed in a specially created test site with sand, rocks, and wooden structures. Most of the time, the cockroaches navigated on their own, using their natural instincts to follow walls and overcome obstacles, but at key moments, the scientists guided them with electrodes.