A new robot from MIT uses insect-like wings to hop its way across terrain, rather than relying on wheels or legs, making it more effective in uneven outdoor environments and more agile than legged robots of a similar size.
The tiny device, weighing less than a paperclip, uses the wings to provide both lift and steering for precise landings, previously achieved by robotic insects using propellers and electric motors, which require more power and don’t manoeuvre as well.
While the current iteration is tethered to off-board power and control systems, the goal is greater efficiency of movement, which also has applications in larger robots.
The research suggests novel movement methods could be used in a wide variety of robotic applications.
