Insect-inspired micro-optical antenna enables ultrasensitive multisensory perception
Xitao Tu, Qian Chen, Tao Feng, Yuqi Zhen, Bowen Cui, Tiefeng Li, Limin Tong, Lei Zhang
Abstract
Insects have evolved highly optimized antennae with ultrasensitive tactile, auditory, and olfactory senses. Although imitating insect antennae offers a promising route to achieving advanced sensing abilities, developing a micro-sized artificial antenna with ultrasensitive multisensory perception and integrable with robotic systems remains challenging. Here, we report a bioinspired micro-optical antenna (MOA) comparable to biological antennae in both architecture and functionality, leveraging an optical micro/nanofiber (MNF) encapsulated within a functionalized polymer film for both sensing and signal transmission. By measuring the radiation or absorption of MNF-guided light induced by external stimuli, the MOA achieves ultrasensitive, fast-response, and low-power tactile, auditory, and olfactory sensing. We further demonstrate a lightweight (~0.1 grams) MOA module mounted on a flapping-wing aerial robot and an insect-like ground robot, enabling robotic multisensory perception and autonomous operation. This work may pave the way for miniaturized versatile sensing systems that could be configured for a broad spectrum of technological applications.