A transformer drone inspired by animals has appeared, and it is possible to walk, run, and fly with wheels that become propellers
A research group including the California Institute of Technology announced 'Multi-Modal Mobility Morphobot', commonly known as 'M4', which can perform eight actions using propellers and wheeled feet.
Multi-Modal Mobility Morphobot (M4) with appendage repurposing for locomotion plasticity enhancement | Nature Communications
Looking at the movie below, you can see what kind of robot 'M4' announced at Nature Communications on June 27, 2023 is.
The bio-inspired 'transformer' that crawls, rolls and flies-YouTube
A robot that runs on four wheels has appeared. This is the M4 developed this time.
The M4 transforms and unfolds its wheeled arms like a quadcopter.
M4 flying as it is and jumping over the river.
M4's transformative abilities are inspired by animals living in their natural environment. For example, meerkats, which normally walk on four legs, can stand upright on their hind legs for reconnaissance.
Similarly, the M4 can stand on two wheels to raise the sensor position and increase the field of view.
The two free arms can also be used for manipulation.
It is also possible to climb steep slopes by combining wheels and rotors.
This behavior is modeled after
Locking the wheels and crawling forward is effective on rough roads.
You can also lower your posture and pass through obstacles.
The research group believes that M4's shape-shifting abilities will be useful for disaster relief and future Mars exploration missions.
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