Category Archives: Research

Teaching Drones to Fly Through Air Ducts

A new article published in npj Robotics addresses the challenge of flying small quadcopters in ventilation ducts with a maximum diameter of 35 cm. This research, conducted by a team of researchers from Inria, CNRS, the University of Lorraine, and Aix-Marseille University, opens up a new field of possibilities relating to the accessibility and inspection of confined environments. Continue reading

Self-Healing Drone Skin Prevents Ice, Enables Monitoring

In the rapidly evolving landscape of aerospace and unmanned systems technology, researchers continuously seek innovative materials and designs to enhance the safety, efficiency, and longevity of unmanned aerial vehicles. A groundbreaking development has emerged from a team led by Xu, Li, Tian, and colleagues, introducing a revolutionary “self-healing UAV skin” that not only prevents icing but also offers intelligent monitoring capabilities. Continue reading

Bio-Hybrid Drone Uses Silkworm Moth Antennae to Navigate Using Smell

Conventional drones use visual sensors for navigation. However, environmental conditions like dampness, low light, and dust can hinder their effectiveness, limiting their use in disaster-stricken areas. Researchers from Japan have developed a novel bio-hybrid drone by combining robotic elements with odor-sensing antennae from silkworm moths. Continue reading