I-Corps: Translation Potential of an Ultra-Low-Power Microrobotic Sensing Platform for Deployable Distributed Robotic Systems

This I-Corps project is based on the development of ultra-low-power microrobotic sensing platforms for operation in environments where current robotic systems are impractical. As demand for continuous sensing grows across logistics, manufacturing, infrastructure, and security applications, there is an increasing need for sensing platforms that are low cost, energy efficient, and easy to maintain. This technology addresses this need through fleets of miniature robotic sensing nodes that combine mobility, wireless communication, embedded sensing, and highly efficient power management into inexpensive platforms that cooperatively monitor large environments. This may reduce deployment and maintenance costs while improving operational flexibility and resilience. In addition, the technology may expand access to robotic sensing across many industries, and accelerate the use of next-generation autonomous sensing systems. This I-Corps project utilizes experiential learning coupled with first-hand investigation of the industry ecosystem to assess the translation potential of an ultra-low-power distributed microrobotic sensing platform. This technology is based on advances in battery-free robotics, miniature aerial systems, embedded wireless sensing, and energy-efficient autonomous operation. Key features of the technology include lightweight robotic platforms with embedded sensing, low-power wireless communication, and scalable fleet architectures that emphasize distributed operation rather than reliance on a small number of high-cost robots. Prior research demonstrated battery-free terrestrial microrobots powered through harvested energy and near-gram aerial vehicles (insect-scaled flying robots) with passive stabilization and sufficient payload capacity for onboard sensing and control. The initial application is automated inventory management for warehouses, fulfillment centers, and logistics operators using ultra-low-power microrobotic sensing nodes to collect inventory and facility data continuously. This technology may reduce the need for manual cycle counts, fixed sensing infrastructure, or larger drones that require charging, maintenance, and dedicated operating windows. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.