Bird-Legged Drones Revolutionize Takeoff and Landing

Researchers from EPFL and UC Irvine have developed the RAVEN drone, which features bird-inspired articulated legs allowing it to walk, hop, and leap into flight without a runway. This design enhances the capabilities of fixed-wing drones, making them more energy-efficient and versatile in rough terrains compared to traditional quadcopters. The RAVEN can operate in areas unsafe for humans and doesn't require smooth surfaces for takeoff, offering a broader operational range.