Force Measurement by MEMS Sensors during Ant Running

Abstract

Insect running is remarkable locomotion in nature. For example, ants climb walls and ceiling same as running on level ground. They can also carry more food to its own weight. This is due to the size effect; such insects are relatively small. Here we introduce our proposed MEMS force plate as a new sensor device for visualizing the forces acting on legs when such small insects are running. The force plate detect 2 axial force acting on the plate with force resolution under 1 µN from the resistance changes of the piezo resistors formed on the supporting beams. Using a prototype force plate, we demonstrate the measurement of the ground reaction force acting on each leg of an ant (Formica fusca).