In a groundbreaking development, researchers have successfully tested a tiny sensor that can function as a sophisticated backpack for bees, enabling precise tracking of their position and temperature during flight. What's truly remarkable is that this sensor, measuring just one millimeter in size, holds potential for medical applications within the human body. [1]

Figure 1. Sensor on a bee.

Figure 1 shows the sensor. The sensor, created by Bernhard Gleich and his team at Philips Research in Hamburg, Germany, consists of two opposing magnetic spheres housed within a cylindrical structure. By remotely stimulating the magnets with electromagnetic coils, the researchers can wirelessly monitor the sensor's conditions. The distance, oscillation, and expansion/contraction of the magnets provide valuable data on temperature, pressure, and location. [1]

To demonstrate its capabilities, the team conducted experiments in which they placed the sensor inside a winding tube to simulate the gastrointestinal tract. They accurately recorded the sensor's path and position in three dimensions. Additionally, they successfully attached the sensor to the back of a honeybee, allowing them to reconstruct the bee's flight path as it navigated a box adorned with meadow flowers, showcasing the sensor's potential for insect research. [1]

Beyond bees, the researchers envision adapting the sensor for medical purposes. They propose implanting it into a person's heart to measure arterial blood pressure, affixing it to tumors for real-time monitoring, or even utilizing it as a swallowable pill to assess gastrointestinal health before naturally passing through the body. [1]

While similar medical devices already exist, this tiny sensor distinguishes itself with its compact size and wireless functionality, significantly reducing stress and costs associated with deployment. Jürgen Rahmer, another member of the research team, highlights its advantages over existing devices. However, the sensor is still in its early stages of development. [1]

Peter Dobson, from the University of Oxford, describes the sensor as an "interesting small device" but emphasizes that further progress is required before widespread adoption. The team estimates that it may take five to eight more years for the sensor to undergo clinical trials and become readily available. The focus now lies on refining the demonstrator, making it smaller, more reliable, and user-friendly as they strive towards transforming this innovation into a practical product. [1]

Source: New Scientist

References:

1. https://www.newscientist.com/article/2376605-tiny-backpack-for-bees-can-track-their-position-and-temperature/

Cite this article:

Hana M (2023), Buzzing with Precision - The Smart Tiny Backpack Revolutionizing Bee Research!, AnaTechmaz, pp.451