In the heart of the EPFL laboratories, in Switzerland (one of our old knowledge), a group of researchers has achieved what until recently seemed impossible: a robot that replicates the movement capabilities of a crow. It is not just about flying, but a complex series of actions that include walking, jumping and moving over rough terrain. Biomimicry has taken another step forward.
A cutting-edge mechanical crow
The project RAVEN (Robotic Avian-inspired Vehicle for multiple ENvironments) is a significant step forward in biomimetic robotics. Developed by Won Dong-Shin and his team at theEPFL, this robotic crow It stands out for its ability to combine flight with advanced ground mobility.
Unlike other flying robots, as mentioned, RAVEN does not simply replicate the flapping of its wings. The flight system was engineered using a combination of two semi-fixed wings and a propeller, a solution that guarantees efficiency and control during aerial navigation.
But it is in the legs that the real potential of this robot lies. The team has created a system of joints that, while not completely replicating the anatomical complexity of a real crow (it takes a lot), captures its functional essence.
The biomechanics of movement
RAVEN’s legs are a masterpiece of nature-inspired engineering. The system relies on joints that replicate the hips, ankles, and feet of a real crow, allowing the robot to perform a variety of movements with remarkable fluidity.
This configuration allows the robot to walk by alternating one foot in front of the other, just like a real crow would. But that's not all: RAVEN can also jump over small obstacles or gaps and leap onto raised surfaces, demonstrating surprising versatility.
The most interesting feature? The ability to use its legs for takeoff, just like crows do in nature. Tests have shown that this “jump-assisted” takeoff method is considerably more energy efficient than a standard takeoff.
The future of autonomous robotics
As reported in the magazine Nature (I'll link the study here), the researchers underline the importance of this innovation:
Multi-functional robotic legs expand the capabilities of traditional fixed-wing aircraft in complex terrain through autonomous takeoffs and multi-modal gaits.
Translated from “scientifichese”: RAVEN has enormous potential in the field of autonomous robotics. The ability to move efficiently both in the air and on rough terrain opens up new possibilities for using robots in complex scenarios.
Once again, sorry if I always insist on this point, careful observation of nature guides the development of innovative technological solutions. The progress of robotics, believe it or not, has a completely natural matrix!
