Scientists from Stanford University were able to use only six micro-robots to pull a 2-ton car. Using ants and geckos as inspirations, as well as some applications of physics, the 100-gram micro robots were able to pull a 3,900-pound car.

Ants are well known for being able to lift objects that are much heavier than them. They can supposedly lift objects that are over 100 times their own weight. A colony of ants can lift objects that are even much larger and heavier than themselves. They can do this by working together and attaching themselves to each other. They do this for both guidance and support.

According to Engadget, a scientists from Stanford University decided to study ants. They wanted to find out how these insects are able to move objects that are so much larger than themselves and apply these principles to micro-robots. The micro robots that were used were given a special adhesive, similar to that found on a gecko's foot. Gecko feet have layers of tissue that are covered with hairs. These tiny hairs spread out and this can greatly help increase contact between the gecko feet and the surface it attaches itself to.

The scientists covered the bottoms of the micro robot's feet with tiny wedges of silicone that are 0.1mm long. When the micro robot's foot rests on a surface, it then allows the micro robot's foot to increase contact with the surface it attaches to. In effect, it can help keep the micro robot's foot in place.

According to The New York Times, the micro robot the Stanford scientists came up with is named the µTug from the Greek letter µ (mu). This means micro. The µTug micro robot only has one foot and two wheels for traveling. It moves forward with its wheels then squats down and anchors itself to the ground firmly with its foot.

The µTug micro robots work together just like ants. However, they are more efficient than the ants because each one of them can carry over 2,000 times their own weight. Thanks to their impeccable teamwork and significant individual power, a group of only six µTug micro-robots weighing only 100 grams total were able to pull a 3,900-pound car and driver. The video can be seen below.

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