Epson Creates World's Smallest MAV

Posted 18 Nov 2003 at 16:12 UTC by The Swirling Brain

JCN Newswire says that Epson is claiming to have developed the world's smallest flying microrobot. Epson developed the uFR (Micro Flying Robot) to demonstrate the micromechanics technology using an ultrasonic motor and bluetooth module for remote control. The uFR flys via two contra-rotating propellers and ultrasonic motor that has the world's highest power to weight ratio. The flying robot can balance in mid-air using the world's first linear actuator stabilizer mechanism. Epson sold previous Micro Air Vehicle versions such as the EMRos and the Monsieur flying robots, so I'm wondering if this one will be out by Christmas to fly around my living room?

Some more info on the uFR..., posted 18 Nov 2003 at 16:16 UTC by The Swirling Brain » (Master)

Here's a link to the uFR on Epson's site.
Here's a diagram of the uFR.

I got a hunch..., posted 18 Nov 2003 at 19:46 UTC by earlwb » (Master)

My hunch is that this is for the government. Not for us.

It isn't for anybody until they find a battery , posted 19 Nov 2003 at 20:22 UTC by Frank McNeill » (Apprentice)

<The prototype four-legged robot weighs just 10 grams (0.35 ounces) and measures 70 millimeters (2.8 inches) in height. It can be operated by remote control but at present it must be powered via a 1.5-meter-long (5.0-feet) cable connected to an electric generator. It took Seiko Epson three years to develop the Micro Flying Robot, Ajioka said while declining to give financial details The company hopes the robot will eventually fly independently using an onboard battery but so far has been unable to find a suitably lightweight power source. "That's why we showed this robot at the exhibition. We want to attract battery makers who can manufacture a very light battery for us," Ajioka said, adding the company had yet to set a date for marketing the robot. >