SMRTR Science & EngineeringFeb 12, 2026Interesting Engineering

New single 1.5mm sensor gives robots 180-degree vision and bionic smell power

SMRTR summary

Scientists at the Chinese Academy of Sciences created a revolutionary 1.5mm sensor inspired by fruit fly compound eyes that gives robots simultaneous 180-degree vision and chemical detection capabilities. The miniature device packs 1,027 visual units and includes an inkjet-printed chemical array that changes color when detecting hazardous gases, enabling small drones to navigate tight spaces while identifying both visual threats and dangerous substances for emergency response missions.

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