Adaptive continuous-shape-changing solar-powered microfliers

The exceptional adaptivity of biological organisms to new environments is difficult to replicate in artificial robots. Although dandelion-inspired microfliers have successfully mimicked passive wind dispersal of dandelion seeds with long travel distances and certain controllable landing capacities, existing designs have yet to replicate the adaptive abscission and continuous-shape-changing mechanisms observed in species. Here we propose an adaptive continuous-shape-changing solar-powered microflier actuated by the shape memory alloy actuators with a minimal total weight of 198 mg. The designed microfliers synergistically mimic the adaptive abscission and continuous-shape-changing mechanisms of dandelion seeds, enabling precise controls of aerodynamics and flight performances in response to multi-environmental factors. Moreover, our microfliers demonstrate controlled interval deployments, programmable flight performances, and robust self-sustaining operations, facilitating their level of intelligence and practical applications.