Image: Northwestern University
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a flying microchip sensor device. The microfliers are modelled on how maple trees spread their seed and fly in a slow stable rotation when moving through the air. The tiny devices include sensors, a power source, data storage and antennae for wireless communication. The goal is to be able to use the microfliers to sense the environment for contamination monitoring, population surveillance, or disease tracking. The team has also developed transient electronics to be used in the microfliers, which biodegrade in water over time.
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