The Times reports on a group of European researchers who are developing a robotic cockroach. This tiny robot, dubbed InsBot, will infiltrate cockroach communities, assume a leadership role, and then lead the insects out into the light (and to their doom). The researchers hope that someday people will use these robo-roaches as a way of controlling roach infestations. This all sounds so bizarre that I'd assume it was a hoax if it wasn't reported in The Times. But I've got to assume they've done their homework and aren't trying to pull our leg. The researchers are also looking into robotic chickens, sheep, and guinea fowl. (via We Make Money Not Art)
Comments
They covered the scent bit with the "perfume" they've developed. Just hope they don't start mentioning pheramones! As for the "stealth" robot cockroach(electrocution as weapon of choice), I take it that you've never had to battle with a REALLY roach-infested building/apartment. The last one I spent 2 nites in, an Army "Guest House" at Ft. Polk, LA, 1982, was burned to the ground by the post Fire Dept. the following year to help control the post's roach population.
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