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Mike Libby
Robot-like insects and insect-like
robots are the stuff of science fiction and science fact. In science
fiction, insects are frequently featured as robotic critters.
Either scurrying across the galaxy as invading aliens or as robo-bug
counterparts to a futuristic human race. There are countless examples
in TV, movies, video games, comic books, even on rock and roll
album covers, ( see Journey's "Escape" circa 1981 ).
From Cronos to the Golden Compass, the inscet/robot archetype
has been used, re-used and re-imagined countless times.
In reality, engineers look to
insect movement, wing design and other characteristics for inspiration
of new technology. Some of the most advanced aircraft is no bigger,
or heavier, than a dragonfly, and NASA scientists are making big
steps in walking rovers and swarm theory probes for planetary
exploration. Manmade technology is finding that the most manuverable
and efficient design features really does come from nature.
Ironically and often, this technology
closely resembles the musings of science fiction. This hybridization
of insects and technology from both fields, is where Insect Lab
borrows from. Insect Lab celebrates these correspondences and
contradictions. The work does not intend to function, but playfully
and slyly insists that it possibly could.
