"Evolved" Robot Can Fly Without Humans

That is the latest achievement of the Italian Institute of Technology (IIT) with iRonCub3 - the world's first humanoid robot capable of flying using jet turbines.

The product marks a turning point in research on multi-terrain moving robots, especially in the context of rescue and disaster response missions that increasingly require support from advanced technology.

The iRonCub3 is equipped with four jet engines, including two in the arms and two on the back, which can generate a thrust of more than 1,000 newtons, enough to lift the 70 kg robot body off the ground. The titanium spine and heat-resistant shell protect the robot from exhaust gases up to 800°C, ensuring safety during operation.

Unlike symmetrical and stable drones, robots have a humanoid shape with flexible limbs, causing aerodynamic fluctuations and constant changes in center of gravity.

To address this challenge, a team at IIT – in collaboration with Milan Polytechnic and Stanford University – has developed an AI-integrated flight control system, using neural networks trained from simulated and real-world data.

Thanks to that, the iRonCub3 can adjust its flight attitude, cope with turbulent air flows and launch its jets sequentially during takeoff.

The development of this robot also applied the "co-design" method, while optimizing the body shape and engine mounting position to achieve the highest flight performance. A series of simulation tests, thermal control, thrust sensors and take-off and landing algorithms were carefully refined.

According to Daniele Pucci, Head of the Mechanical and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (AMI Lab) at IIT, the design of the robot is aimed at expanding its capabilities in more harsh and unpredictable environments.

iRonCub can be applied in rescue missions in disaster areas, surveying hazardous environments and autonomous navigation in enclosed spaces with complex structures.

It is expected that in the near future, iRonCub3 will continue to be tested outdoors at Genoa airport, preparing for further steps in integrating flying robot technology into real life.