A team of researchers from the Seoul National University of Science and Technology has introduced an innovative transport drone equipped with flexible rotors that self-correct to maintain level flight. This drone, dubbed the “Palletrone,” can function as a “flying shopping cart,” designed to transport goods across uneven surfaces, including stairs.
The prototype features a cargo platform mounted atop a multi-rotor drone, which can be maneuvered by a user with gentle guidance, resembling the handle of a conventional shopping cart. During a demonstration, the team showcased the drone’s ability to navigate obstacles by moving objects up and down stairs and loading boxes while hovering mid-air, all while utilizing a center of mass estimation algorithm to ensure balance.
According to Lee Seung-jae, a professor of mechanical system design engineering, the drone employs a technique called physical human-robot interaction. This approach allows it to respond intuitively to human control, anticipating movements for smoother operation, especially in scenarios where traditional wheeled carts cannot function effectively.
While the “flying shopping cart” concept is captivating, Lee emphasized that the broader goal of his team is to develop a drone capable of reliable horizontal stability without experiencing pitch or roll. “The Palletrone can be more than a flying shopping cart,” he noted, combining the words “pallet” and “drone” to reflect its cargo-carrying capabilities.
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