Insect-inspired micro-optical antenna enables ultrasensitive multisensory perception.

Abstract

Insects have evolved highly optimized antennae with ultrasensitive tactile, auditory, and olfactory senses. Although imitating insect antennae offers a promising route to achieving advanced sensing abilities, developing a micro-sized artificial antenna with ultrasensitive multisensory perception and integrable with robotic systems remains challenging. Here, we report a bioinspired micro-optical antenna (MOA) comparable to biological antennae in both architecture and functionality, leveraging an optical micro/nanofiber (MNF) encapsulated within a functionalized polymer film for both sensing and signal transmission. By measuring the radiation or absorption of MNF-guided light induced by external stimuli, the MOA achieves ultrasensitive, fast-response, and low-power tactile, auditory, and olfactory sensing. We further demonstrate a lightweight (~0.1 grams) MOA module mounted on a flapping-wing aerial robot and an insect-like ground robot, enabling robotic multisensory perception and autonomous operation. This work may pave the way for miniaturized versatile sensing systems that could be configured for a broad spectrum of technological applications.