This project entails the creation of a coordinated colony of robotic bees, RoboBees. Research topics are split between the body, brain, and colony. Each of these research areas is drawn together by the challenges of recreating various functionalities of natural bees. One such example is pollination: Bees coordinate to interact with complex natural systems by using a diversity of sensors, a hierarchy of task delegation, unique communication, and an effective flapping-wing propulsion system. Pollination and other agricultural tasks will serve as challenge thrusts throughout the life of this project. Such tasks require expertise across a broad spectrum of scientific topics. The research team includes experts in biology, computer science, electrical and mechanical engineering, and materials science, assembled to address fundamental challenges in developing RoboBees. An integral part of this program is the development of a museum exhibit, in partnership with the Museum of Science, Boston, which will explore the life of a bee and the technologies required to create RoboBees.
Project Products
Funders
NSF
Award Number:
0926148
Funding Amount:
9301955
NSF
Award Number:
0925751
Funding Amount:
698045
TEAM MEMBERS
Robert Wood
Principal Investigator
Harvard University
Radhika Nagpal
Co-Principal Investigator
Harvard University
J. Gregory Morrisett
Co-Principal Investigator
Harvard University
Gu-Yeon Wei
Co-Principal Investigator
Harvard University
Joseph Ayers
Principal Investigator
Northeastern University
If you would like to edit a resource, please email us to submit your request.