A Multi-modal Robot for Ground and Aerial Locomotion

Abstract

This thesis describes the design and testing of a quadcopter that capable of both driving and flying. This was achieved by mounting quadcopter motors and propellers to the center of each of the robot's four wheels. The wheels are then capable of changing orientation in order to allow the robot to either drive or fly. Each of these wheels contains a gearing and bearing system that decouples the rotation of the wheels from the rotation of the propellers and also houses the system's landing gear. The prototype described in this thesis is capable of driving on flat surfaces as well as vertical take-off and landing. Further improvements to the system would be required in order for it to perform longer flights, complex aerial maneuvers, drive on uneven surfaces, or carry additional payloads.