University of Tokyo Unveils SPIDAR, a Flying Quadruped Robot for Complex Terrain

A team at the University of Tokyo has introduced SPIDAR, a four-legged robot capable of both crawling and flying, designed for use in challenging environments.

Credit: DRAGON Lab

Developed by the university’s JSK Lab, SPIDAR stands for Sensing, Processing, and Intelligent Dynamics for Aerial-ground Robot. The robot combines aerial and ground mobility, making it suitable for tasks such as search-and-rescue missions and inspections in rugged or confined spaces.

SPIDAR features four legs, each fitted with a vectorable thrust unit. These rotors tilt to adjust thrust direction, allowing the robot to maintain precise control while flying or moving on the ground.

Unlike traditional drones, SPIDAR’s rotors are built into its legs, reducing air interference and enabling it to operate in tight areas.

The robot can lift off, hover, and fly while adjusting its leg positions for balance. It can also crawl by lifting all four legs simultaneously with the help of rotor thrust, allowing it to cross uneven terrain or obstacles.

On flat surfaces, SPIDAR functions like a standard quadruped robot, using its legs for stable walking.

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• University of Tokyo’s SPIDAR robot can both fly and crawl

• Designed for use in rugged or confined environments

• Features vectorable thrust units for precise movement

Source: TechEBlog