Novel Power Supply for Microrobots

AFRL/MN is interested in the development of technologies to support a micro-robot system that can, depending on its payload and operational requirements, act as means of attacking, tagging, tracking, and/or observing enemy operations. Of particular interest are deeply buried hardened targets. The AFRL/MN goal is to develop a micro-scaled device capable of satisfying three basic requirements regardless of operational functions: (1) mobility, (2) navigation and (3) payload delivery. Technology developments required in order to accomplish these basic functional requirements, and to realize the micro-platform concept, are all based upon advancements in micro-power. Phase-I objectives were to demonstrate that the proposed technology was a functional and viable long-term electrical power source for micro-robots. The goals of the Phase-I project have not only been met but have been exceeded by prototype demonstration. The Phase-II effort proposes to refine, maximize and optimize this technology as well as fully demonstrate the technology in a simulated operational environment. This will occur on a mobile micro-robot platform carrying navigational, sensor and payload packages (either actual or simulated) in order to demonstrate power generation capability for the entire system. Additionally, application of this technology to other AFRL/MN projects (micro-robot and non-micro-robot) will be demonstrated via prototype.