South Korean researchers from Seoul National University of Science and Technology have developed a transport drone, dubbed "Palletrone," featuring multiple flexible rotors that self-correct to maintain level flight. This drone acts as a "flying shopping cart," capable of carrying goods over uneven terrain, such as stairs.
The prototype includes a cargo platform controlled by a user, who guides the drone. The drone can move objects up and down stairs and uses a “center of mass estimation” algorithm to hover and maintain balance.
The drone employs a physical human-robot interaction technique, allowing it to respond smoothly to human movements and intentions, according to Professor Lee Seung-Jae.
While the prototype can navigate steps, the team's broader aim is to explore applications that require reliable horizontal stability in drones without pitching or rolling, making the Palletrone
