Italian humanoid robot iRonCub3 takes flight with jet turbines and real-time AI control

A groundbreaking humanoid robot has made significant strides in robotic mobility by successfully achieving powered flight. The iRonCub3, developed by the Italian Institute of Technology (IIT), utilizes four microjet turbines along with sophisticated aerodynamics and an AI system based on neural networks to hover. In a recent test, the iRonCub3 demonstrated its capabilities by flying 50 centimeters above the ground, showcasing its stability and maneuverability even in windy conditions. This innovative robot is designed to operate in environments that are too risky for conventional robots or drones. Weighing in at 70 kilograms, the iRonCub3 features extended, movable limbs reinforced with titanium, allowing it to withstand high temperatures of 800°C generated by its propulsion system. Its AI technology is adept at responding to real-time aerodynamic changes, ensuring stability while its limbs are in motion. Unlike quadcopters, the humanoid design of the iRonCub3 presents unique challenges. The IIT team, in collaboration with Milan Polytechnic and Stanford University, has crafted neural controllers that adjust to variations in airflow and changes in the robot's posture. These AI models were developed using both simulated environments and real-world data. Daniele Pucci, who leads the project at IIT’s Artificial and Mechanical Intelligence Lab in Genoa, explained that the robot's design aims to enhance robotic functionality in unpredictable and rugged terrains. The research team employed a co-design strategy to optimize turbine placement and manage thermal outputs, integrating sensors and control systems into the robot's limbs. Having already completed successful hovering trials at IIT’s facility, the next phase will involve outdoor testing at Genoa Airport, where the robot will need to comply with aviation safety regulations. The potential applications for the iRonCub3 are vast, including search-and-rescue operations in disaster areas, inspections in hazardous environments, and the autonomous navigation of complex indoor settings. By merging humanoid motion with aerial flight, this robot signifies a remarkable advancement in the field of robotics.