Korean researchers have developed a beetle-like soft robot. Source: KAIST
When we hear the word “robot,” we still conjure up images of mechanical figures from old science fiction films. However, reality has long since evolved: We’re surrounded by smart vacuum cleaners, voice assistants, and even four-legged machines that mimic dogs. But what are these robotic animals?
They’re not just battery-powered toys. They’re complex electronic devices, infused with elements of artificial intelligence, that replicate the appearance and behavior of real or imaginary creatures.
These devices contain sensors, speakers, motors, and processor modules that analyze external signals. They’re controlled via mobile apps. Digital pets can make distinctive sounds, respond to signs of affection, answer to their names, and display a range of emotions—from delight to fear, from satisfaction to fatigue.
Manufacturers employ a variety of engineering approaches when creating these devices. Let’s look at some interesting examples.
Microrobot beetle and its relatives
A microrobot beetle might seem like a fun little gadget. But leading research centers such as the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) are working on developing similar insects (see image above).
So why are robot ants, robot beetles, and robot bees being created? The answer lies in solving practical and even humanitarian problems.
Cyborg cockroaches: Rescuers from under the ruins
In the spring of 2022, a tragedy occurred in the city of Changsha, China—a six-story building collapsed. Dozens of people were trapped under the rubble. Many remained missing for nearly six days.
Rescue efforts were hampered by piles of rubble and collapsed floors. Ultimately, 53 people died, and only 10 were rescued. In such operations, every minute is precious. Rescuers use thermal imaging cameras and comb through the rubble, but this takes precious time.
But what if cockroaches come to the rescue? These insects are fast and can penetrate even the tiniest cracks, allowing them to quickly survey the disaster area. But how can they be made to search for people? A team at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in Singapore said it has found a solution by transforming a Madagascar cockroach into a cyborg.
A miniature backpack containing a microcomputer is attached to the insect’s back. It contains sensors that detect dangerous gas concentrations, as well as an infrared camera with a thermal imager, allowing it to detect bodies under the rubble. To prevent the insects from scattering randomly, but rather to remain confined to a specific area, the scientists have developed a remote control system.
Electrodes and a microchip are attached to the cockroach’s body. An electrical impulse to the right side causes the insect to move to the left, and vice versa. When both electrodes are activated, the cockroach accelerates and runs straight.
This cyborg can operate for long periods in rubble: the microcomputer is powered by solar panels. One individual can survey an area of up to 100 sq. m (1,076.3 sq. ft.). The operator controls the movement and monitors the signals from the sensors.
However, there’s a catch: to fully survey a large building, about 500 of these cockroaches are required, meaning 500 operators. And although the cyborg will indicate the location of the victim, it won’t be able to extract them—that’s a task for humans.
Robot ants: Strength in miniature
Stanford University engineers created mechanical ants capable of moving loads 2,000 times their own mass. For a human, this is the equivalent of moving a 150-ton whale.
Just four of these tiny animals can transport an adult, and a whole group can lift a concrete slab or rebar. This phenomenal lifting capacity was achieved thanks to a gecko-inspired paw design that provides a secure grip on any surface.
A special coating of microscopic rubber hairs creates a bio-stimulated adhesive effect: When the rope is taut, the robot adheres and releases when it is loosened.
However, this high performance requires a lot of energy. The battery can run out at critical moments, so in industrial settings, these ants are connected to a cable and used as towing vehicles.
Snake-like robot: Underwater repairman
Animal robots are capable of not only eliminating the consequences of disasters but also preventing them. Norwegian developers have created a 5 m (16.4 ft.) robotic snake for servicing underwater oil pipelines. It inspects pipelines, transmits images to a dispatcher, and, if a defect is detected, repairs it.
Equipped with manipulators at both ends, the snake can replace valves and clean deposits from pipes. These devices can operate at depths of up to 500 m (1,640.4 ft.) for up to six months, recharging at special stations.
Robot crab: Underground explorer
University of California, Berkeley, engineers developed a robotic crab for underground exploration. Using fabric scoops on its claws, it burrows into the ground, collects samples, and analyzes the soil. Equipped with sensors and a manipulator, it can determine the suitability of a site.
These robotic animals could be used in construction or agriculture, detecting pollution. In the future, such crabs are even planned for use on the Moon. Scientists are currently working on improving the design so that the robot can dig deeper.
More recently, open-source crab platforms are helping developers innovate locomotion.
Robot falcons: Airfield guardians
Mechanical falcons, developed at the University of Groningen in the Netherlands, are already in service in Canada and Germany. They frighten real birds away from runways, preventing collisions that could lead to plane crashes.
Unlike acoustic cannons, which birds quickly become accustomed to, robotic predators exploit natural fear—they not only mimic predators but also pursue live birds, demonstrating dominance.
Robot bee: Space scout
A miniature robotic bee, the size of a pinhead, was created at Harvard University. Although it can theoretically pollinate plants, its true purpose is reconnaissance. Sensors mimic the vision and antennae of insects and transmit a three-dimensional image to the operator.
This micro-reconnaissance vehicle can fly, swim, and dive. It runs on solar batteries, consuming only 120 milliwatts—less than a light bulb. Scientists are confident that these bees will be useful for exploring Martian canals, lunar craters, and even the toxic clouds of Venus.
A variety of zoomorphic robots emerges
Today, numerous robots mimic the behavior of a wide variety of animals. Their advantage is the ability to move horizontally and vertically, navigate obstacles, and penetrate hard-to-reach places.
Unlike real animals or people, they do not require food or water, making them suitable assistants in deserts, mountains, and the exploration of other planets. They could be indispensable in rescue operations and scientific research.
For example, MIT scientists created Mini Cheetah—a platform used to test algorithms for guide robots and jumping machines. Chinese engineers have developed an insect-sized model that has the properties of spiders and cockroaches. Another robotic cheetah from DARPA reached speeds of up to 18 mph.
A flexible robot, modeled after the Caenorhabditis elegans roundworm, was capable of navigating around obstacles. Gecko Robotics has commercially deployed systems equipped with suction cups for vertical movement and can operate in hazardous environments.
Submit your innovation now!Quadrupeds follow dogs as human companions
Some four-legged robots can travel over 30 km (18.6 mi.) without recharging and carry loads of up to 180 kg (396.8 lb.). They can transport the injured and recognize voice commands.
Three years ago, Moscow State University unveiled the first such robot in Eastern Europe, costing approximately 1.5 million rubles. The Unitree Robotics A1 model, weighing 15 kg (33 lb.), was controlled by powerful electric motors. It was even tested at a zoo to observe the animals’ reactions.
After testing, the design was modified, improving access to the internal subsystems. The robot is controlled by a joystick and connected to cameras and lidar for navigation. Its basic gait is a trot, and its speed is 3.5 km/h. The dog can change its gait, shake a paw, stand up, and lie down.
Unitree introduced the As2 companion earlier this year.
Animal-inspired robots evolve
Although today there are robotic kangaroos, insects, and reptiles, the dog was the first and most common prototype. This is due to the animal’s familiarity as a human assistant. The mechanics of canine movement (walking, running, jumping) proved optimal for engineering solutions. Robo-dogs range in size from a mastiff to a Labrador.
The predecessor is considered to be Phony Pony, a Californian robot from the late 1960s. It didn’t resemble an animal much, but it already had articulated supports, sensors, and motors, becoming the forerunner of all quadrupeds.
Companion animal robots offer therapy and care
Interacting with animals can reduces stress and anxiety. There’s even pet therapy. Pets are especially beneficial for the elderly with dementia, children with mental health issues, and hospital patients.
However, live animals require care, and they are often prohibited in medical facilities. That’s where companion robots come in.
New Zealand scientists have proven that interacting with them is just as beneficial as interacting with real animals. They are hypoallergenic, don’t require food or walking, and their behavior is predictable.
Joy for All
These realistic cats and dogs from Joy for All are covered in soft fur. Cats open their mouths, blink, groom themselves, and roll over when petted. Dogs bark in response to voices, respond to hugs, and their “heartbeat” changes. They fall asleep in the dark. Touch and light sensors are built into the body.
Scientists at Brown University worked on software to transform them into assistants for the elderly. The robotic animals can remind them to take their medications and find their glasses or keys.
Jenny by Tomobot
Tomobot has designed its realistic golden Labrador puppy for the elderly and children with autism. It does not walk to avoid creating a hazard. Jenny senses touch, responds to commands (called “voice”), wags its tail, whines, and snores in its sleep.
The robotic animal contains 50 sensors, 10 motors (seven in its face), and microphones. An app allows users to name the dog and update its settings.
PARO — a harp seal
This robot animal is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as “the most therapeutic.” Developed in Japan, it promotes relaxation and positive emotions.
The seal pup is covered in sensory whiskers and tactile sensors, moves its paws, makes sounds, recognizes its name, and responds to affection. If ignored, it cries. The charger is shaped like a pacifier, and when removed, PARO makes a disgruntled squeak. Its personality changes depending on how it’s handled.
Aibo by Sony
This sophisticated puppy featured a camera, sensors, and 22 axes of motion. Its eyes are two OLED screens. Thanks to cloud technology, aibo remembered events, developed its personality, and learned.
This robotic dog could play, bark at strangers, patrol a route, and send photos to its owner, although this was primarily for entertainment purposes. Sony discontinued sales of Aibo in June of this year, demonstrating some of the challenges with developing robots for the consumer market.
Robotic animals could become part of our lives
Robot animals are increasingly becoming a part of our lives as therapists, assistants, and friends. They are purchased for children, the elderly, and people with allergies or restrictions on pets.
In Japan, where the problem of an aging population is particularly acute, these devices have long been part of the care system. Europe and the U.S. are also actively investigating them for hospitals and nursing homes, accelerating development. Electronic animals are not just toys, but an important tool for care and rescue.
About the author
Elena Krosheva is a freelance journalist, marketing analyst, and SEO specialist. She graduated with honors from the Faculty of Journalism at the Institute of Modern Knowledge in Minsk, Belarus, in 2007.
Krosheva covers topics such as digitalization, IT, the modern economy, and transhumanism. She loves computers and cyberpunk, having graduated from a technical college before graduating from the Faculty of Journalism.
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