A new bird-like robot could revolutionize how drones and planes take off in the future. According to new research published in the journal Nature in early December, researchers have made a new prototype robot called the “Robotic Avian-inspired Vehicle for multiple Environments” or “RAVEN” for short.
Scientists say the new robot is capable of hopping, walking and leaping like a real raven. They hope the prototype will provide new ways for drones and planes to take off, just like a bird.
The crow-sized drone can launch or take off with a simple leap. The experimental robot also uses flexible legs and joints to walk on the ground and maneuver around rocky, uneven terrain.
The robot includes hips, joint ankles and an elastic toe. These features allow the RAVEN to stand on uneven surfaces without falling over.
Engineers also say the RAVEN is better at takeoffs than conventional drones or aircraft.
The research team noted that jumping takeoffs are about 10 times more energy efficient than conventional takeoffs, and they offer higher takeoff speeds as well.
Researchers say they are hopeful RAVEN can be a springboard for larger drones and conventional-sized aircraft.
Currently, most winged drones need a long runway or catapult to liftoff, while the RAVEN needs neither.
Scientists say the technology employed in RAVEN may someday be used on aircraft carriers, where planes and drones have minimal space. They believe the robot could also help with landing drones and planes on difficult terrain.
This isn’t the first bird-bot entering the next generation of flight. Straight Arrow News previously reported on the “PigeonBot,” which researchers say will help with aircraft stability and prevent “barrel rolls” in the future.