BeeRootBot: A Bioinspired Robotic Probe Exhibiting Apical Growth through In Situ Soil Binding
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This study introduces a minimally invasive robotic probe inspired by plant root growth, designed for subsoil exploration and future ecosystem monitoring and intervention. The bio‐inspired probe advances in soil by mimicking plant root apical growth, creating and consolidating a borehole through the injection of a bio‐based, biodegradable binder at its tip. This innovative process confines penetration resistance to the tip while generating a hollow tubular structure by harnessing in situ local soil. The probe's penetration is facilitated by a linear actuator, which can be retracted upon reaching a desired depth, thereby minimizing the environmental dispersion of mechatronic components. This approach not only enhances the efficiency of subsoil exploration (whether on‐Earth or in outer space) by reducing penetration force requirements and reliance on exogenous material but also ensures environmental sustainability by employing biodegradable materials and lowering mechanical footprints. The robotic probe's design and functionality highlight the potential of bio‐inspired technologies to address complex environmental challenges, paving the way for future innovations in ecological research and conservation efforts. This study underscores the importance of integrating biological principles into engineering solutions to develop tools that are both effective and environmentally responsible.
Source: Advanced Intelligent Systems
Authors: Sachin Sachin, Alessio Mondini, Stefano Mariani, Emanuela Del Dottore, Barbara Mazzolai
Institution: Italian Institute of Technology
Language: English
Subfield: Biomedical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,970
Awards: G434337789, G4664719049, G5365204872
OpenAlex ID: W4413906482