Bird-Inspired Robot RAVEN Combines Walking, Jumping, and Flight

Engineers in Switzerland have developed a multifunctional drone capable of energy-efficient take-offs and navigation across complex terrains.

The RAVEN robot, designed at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, mimics bird-like movement with legs that enable walking, hopping, and jumping into flight.
Its jumping take-off mechanism is ten times more energy-efficient than traditional fixed-wing drone launches, eliminating the need for runways or launchers.
The robot's legs incorporate tendon-like springs and flexible toes, allowing it to navigate obstacles and perform stable take-offs from challenging environments.
Potential applications for RAVEN include delivery to remote areas and search-and-rescue missions, where its multifunctional mobility could prove valuable.
Future developments aim to integrate landing capabilities, foldable wings for narrow spaces, and potentially flapping wings to enhance agility and mimic bird-like flight further.