Rechargeable cyborg insects using ultrathin organic solar cells

Abstract

In this study, ultrathin organic solar cells are attached to the abdomen of insects to generate power on the insect without impairing its mobility. Using this approach, we achieved rechargeable cyborg insects. We successfully described the relationship between the basic motion ability and the film’s thickness and Young’s modulus quantitatively based on a buckling load. Additionally, we demonstrated that a thin-film device with a thickness of a few micrometers can fully maintain the motion ability of insects, thereby demonstrating the effectiveness of ultrathin electronics. This study involves multiple disciplines, i.e., device physics, materials science, mechanical engineering, and biology. A clear example is provided to demonstrate that new applications can be presented by transcending fields.