Scientists create tiny drones and boats powered entirely by sound
The technology was developed by EPFL's MicroBioRobotic Systems Lab in Switzerland, and the study was published in Science Advances. It relies on acoustic resonance: when sound at the right frequency enters a hollow chamber, the air inside vibrates strongly. The cavity directs some of that air through an opening, creating... Read Entire Article
Scientists at EPFL's MicroBioRobotic Systems Lab have developed miniature boats and flying devices that harness sound to generate propulsion. These 3D-printed structures contain cavities that respond to specific frequencies, creating air vibrations that produce motion without the need for motors or mechanical parts. The technology, published in Science Advances, utilizes acoustic resonance, where sound at the correct frequency entering a hollow chamber causes strong air vibrations.
This directed airflow generates a small jet that propels the device. Unlike acoustic levitation experiments, these EPFL devices use sound energy to create their own movement. The researchers, led by Selman Sakar, envision this as a way to transform simple mechanical pieces into robotic matter, potentially enabling further miniaturization of advanced robotic and aeronautical designs.
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