Engineers from the University of Tokyo presented a prototype of a flying robot - a multicopter, consisting of
The new flying robot consists of severalseparate components equipped with their own motor. These segments are connected together, but are able to move in different directions. Engineers have developed technology that makes it possible to coordinate the movements of disparate parts even as the robot reshapes itself on the fly.
Robot "Dragon". Video: Moju Zhao
Preliminary prototype "Dragon" (Dragon),created by engineers to demonstrate technology, yet can not reach high speed, and his movements look uncertain and angular. But in a demonstration flight, he successfully coped with various tasks, including pushing or pulling objects, twisting into a ring capable of grabbing and carrying objects weighing up to 1 kg.
The second demonstration sample - flyingfour-legged amphibious robot resembling a spider - SPIDAR. It is a robot with four legs and articulations at the hips and knees of each leg. While it can move around a bit with its motorized legs, the main movement, like the Dragon, is provided by flight.
Robot SPIDAR. Video: Moju Zhao
Transforming in the air, this robot cantransform into a flying claw grapple, potentially capable of holding and manipulating two objects at the same time. For example, he can remove the lid from a jar or hold a box while he collects and puts various objects into it.
Read more:
Land in China drilled to a record depth
It's not about the Earth: scientists explained why the solar system is the rarest
Medieval fortress accidentally discovered in the forest: the find surprised scientists
On the cover: robot SPIDAR. Image: Moju Zhao