Untethered Autonomous Flight

Untethered autonomous flight aims to create aerial and ground robots capable of independent operation without physical tethers, freeing them from power and communication constraints. Current research focuses on developing compact, efficient power sources and actuation systems, such as miniaturized pneumatic systems, low-voltage electrohydraulic actuators, and even self-sustained oscillators eliminating the need for electronics. These advancements are enabling the development of smaller, lighter, and more versatile robots for applications ranging from search and rescue to environmental monitoring and minimally invasive surgery.