On February 1, 2025, the Advanced Robotics and Intelligent Automation (ARIA) Team from the Information Science and Technology (IST) program at Vidyasirimedhi Institute of Science and Technology (VISTEC), under the leadership of Professor Dr. Poramate Manoonpong, embarked on a research visit to Chiang Mai. Accompanying the team were visiting professors, Prof. Stanislav Gorb and Dr. Elena Gorb, from Kiel University, Germany. The visit aimed to conduct field research, collect biological samples for bio-inspired robotics studies, and establish a research collaboration with Chiang Mai University. This joint initiative sought to integrate expertise from multiple disciplines to advance research in robotics, biomechanics, and intelligent automation.
The journey began with an exploration of Chiang Mai’s cultural heritage. On the first day (February 1, 2025), the team visited two of the city’s most historically significant temples, Wat Chedi Luang Varaviharn and Wat Phra Singh Woramahaviharn. These renowned sites, known for their ancient architecture and deep religious significance, provided valuable cultural insights and an appreciation for the region’s rich history.
Shifting from cultural exploration to scientific inquiry, the second day (February 2, 2025) took the team to Doi Mae Mae for a field study led by Dr. Chanaporn Suttinun. The focus of the research was the study of Mayfly larvae in the river, leading to in-depth discussions on their ecological role as bioindicators of water quality. The team examined their distinctive morphological traits, including their delicate wings and exceptionally short adult lifespan. The visit concluded with further exploration of the surrounding environment, where team members exchanged knowledge on the diverse plant and insect species they encountered, deepening their understanding of ecological adaptations.
On the third day (February 3, 2025), the focus turned to the intricate relationship between nature’s structural adaptations and scientific innovation. Guided by the expertise of Prof. Stanislav Gorb and Dr. Elena Gorb, the team ventured deep into the forest, studying plant structures and their evolutionary adaptations to different environments. Prof. Gorb explained how microscopic surface patterns on leaves influence water retention and self-cleaning properties, drawing connections to bio-inspired engineering. Dr. Elena Gorb highlighted specific plant adaptations that serve as natural prototypes for innovations in material science, particularly in adhesion and structural stability. These insights sparked engaging discussions on how biological principles could inform advancements in robotics, prosthetics, and soft materials. The serene atmosphere of the forest fostered intellectual exchange, inspiring the team to gather plant surface samples for further analysis in future research.
Following the immersive field exploration, the fourth day (February 4, 2025) was dedicated to an academic exchange at the Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chiang Mai University. The team was warmly welcomed by esteemed faculty members, including Deputy Dean Dr. Chatcote Thitaram, Dr. Chanaporn Suttinun, Asst. Prof. Dr. Siriporn Peansukmanee, Dr. Borin Boonsri, and a group of Ph.D. students. The session provided an excellent platform for knowledge sharing and interdisciplinary collaboration. Faculty members presented their research in wildlife conservation, disease prevention, biomechanics, and animal pathology, while the ARIA Team introduced their work in advanced robotics and intelligent automation. Discussions centered on the intersections between robotics, veterinary science, and biological research, emphasizing potential applications of bio-inspired technology in medical and environmental sciences.
A key highlight of the visit was the hands-on analysis of the Mayfly specimens collected in Doi Mae Mae. Dr. Chanaporn Suttinun and her team provided detailed insights into their physiological structures and their significance as bioindicators. Observing these specimens under a microscope allowed the team to connect ecological studies with technological applications, reinforcing the importance of cross-disciplinary research.
The visit concluded with a tour of the Faculty of Veterinary Science’s research facilities. The first stop was the Animal Barn, where various animal care and rehabilitation projects support both domestic and wildlife research. This facility plays a vital role in veterinary education and conservation efforts, underscoring the broader impact of veterinary science in preserving biodiversity and ensuring animal welfare.
The final stop was the Chiang Mai Anatomy Pathology Museum, home to an extensive collection of preserved specimens that showcased the anatomical diversity of various species. From skeletal structures to organ systems, the exhibits illustrated the complexity of biological adaptations, sparking thought-provoking discussions on the parallels between natural evolution and robotic design. The museum visit further reinforced the idea that nature’s designs provide invaluable inspiration for advancements in robotics and intelligent automation.
