Japanese scientists have created a remote-controlled cyborg cockroach

Scientists placed remote control electrodes on a cockroach. Article about it published npj is at Flex Elektronik.

Cyborgs are hybrids of an animal (human) and a machine. This concept originated long before it was technically possible and became popular thanks to fantasy works. However, now scientists are trying to create such organisms and have had some success.

Yujiro Kakei of the Center for Advanced Materials Sciences (Japan) and colleagues transformed a Madagascar cockroach into a cyborg. By attaching a special backpack, the scientists attached a wireless leg control module and a lithium-polymer battery to the insect’s chest. Additionally, the researchers fixed an ultra-thin organic solar cell module with a thickness of 0.004 mm. Such a small size of the system is needed in order for the cockroach to move smoothly. It was especially important to use a combination of hard and soft elements in the design, as the cockroach’s chest deforms as it moves.

During the tests, the battery was charged with a sunlight simulator and then the system was tested for performance. As a result, in response to the commands of the scientists, the cockroach turned in the right direction during movement due to electrical stimulation of the abdominal appendages. The study’s authors suggest that such a cyborg cockroach could be useful for inspecting hard-to-reach areas. During further work, the scientists hope to create a similar system for flying insects.

scientists taughtand artificial intelligence to “explain” their decisions.