Created and conceived by Disney Research Zurich in collaboration with ETH Zurich research institute, the wheeled robot VertiGo is capable of climbing walls, even un-smooth ones.
The robot has four 3D printed wheels and two independently tilting propellers, giving flying drones some competition. VertiGo is able to climb up even rough and uneven surfaces with much agility. It has a light carbon fiber frame that allows it to be driven (in two wheel drive) as well on ground as it is up walls that are not flat. This is because, unlike other wall-climbing robots, this one does not rely on suction.
The project resulted in a successful prototype and indicates where the future of wheeled robots and similar robotics could be developed to.
Wall-Climbing Robots
This Wheeled Robot From Disney Can Climb Even Uneven Walls With Agility
Trend Themes
1. Wheeled Robots - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop advanced robots with two independently tilting propellers for improved climbing capabilities.
2. 3D Printing - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Utilize 3D printing technology to create lightweight and durable components for robots designed to climb uneven surfaces.
3. Non-suction Climbing - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore alternative climbing mechanisms for robots that do not rely on suction, enabling them to traverse rough and uneven surfaces.
Industry Implications
1. Robotics - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Identify applications in various industries where wheeled robots with climbing capabilities can revolutionize operations and tasks.
2. Aviation - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Combine the technologies of flying drones and wheeled robots to develop versatile and agile aerial robotics solutions.
3. Manufacturing - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Introduce wheeled robots with wall-climbing abilities to optimize assembly processes and perform tasks in challenging environments.