Our research on small-scale robots addresses embodiments of robots in the centimeter scale, comparable to the size of large insects. Such robots are uniquely suited for tasks in confined spaces, such as exploration of a coral reef or inspection of machines. Creating robots on small scales requires solutions for actuators and components as small as a few millimeters. This miniaturization not only enables the downscaling of machines, but also enables applications that require a high density of actuators within a compact volume—allowing complex movements with biological elegance.  Our research seeks to bring similar functionality to robotic systems by rethinking actuation and design principles.

The primary challenge in small-scale robotics lies in achieving high performance within extreme size constraints. To address this, we are exploring physical principles for transduction, such as electrostatic actuation, which offer high energy density on millimeter scale. In addition, fabricating such miniaturized components requires precision manufacturing tools while still enabling scalable production. Our research focuses on developing fabrication techniques for the processing of polymers that can reliably produce numerous actuators in parallel. We leverage soft and soft-hard hybrid material systems, which provide a rich design space for creating structures that enhance the capabilities of small-scale robots.

A central goal of our work is to reduce system complexity while maintaining functionality. By investigating locomotion principles that allow for complex movements while using a minimal number of actuators, we aim to achieve high levels of functionality within limited space. Additionally, we embed functional behavior directly into the robot’s structure, offloading certain tasks and computations to the robotic body itself. This approach reduces the reliance on digital computation, enabling designs that are more energy-efficient at the system's level.

Through these advancements, we are paving the way for a new generation of small-scale robots that combine high functionality, compact design, and scalability, opening doors to applications in dynamic environments and in confined spaces.