Scientists often study nature to solve complex engineering problems. Such is the case with these tiny robot prototypes; scientists from several countries are cooperating to develop microbots that can act as a swarm, just like insects. The tiny robots will measure less than 4mm in each direction and be powered by a small solar panel on their backs.
Individually, they are small and simple. But together, an entire swarm of these microbots could establish hive intelligence, communicate with each other via infrared sensors, perform complex tasks and relay important information back to their home base. They move on three vibrating legs while a fourth acts as a touch sensor.