Edible robots open up new technology on the tip of the tongue [Chinese (Traditional)]

Author: Liu Xia | Source: big5.news.cn | Read the full article in Chinese (Traditional)

Scientists are pushing the boundaries of technology with an exciting new concept: edible robots that can serve multiple purposes before becoming a meal. Researchers at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL) have developed innovative prototypes that challenge our traditional understanding of robotics, creating machines that can perform tasks and then be consumed by humans or animals.

One remarkable example is a tiny underwater robot designed to look like a miniature motorboat. Made from fish feed materials, this robot can move through water and complete specific missions before dissolving and becoming food for fish. Another fascinating creation is a wedding cake robot called RoboCake, which features movable parts made from edible components like gelatin decorations and a vitamin-powered LED candle.

Beyond being a technological curiosity, these edible robots have potential applications in critical fields like healthcare, environmental monitoring, and wildlife management. They could help deliver medications, track health conditions, provide emergency nutrition, and even assist in vaccine distribution for wild animals. The most significant advantage is their environmentally friendly design, which addresses the growing problem of electronic waste by creating devices that naturally decompose and return to the ecosystem.

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