The hybrid robot that walks, flies, and rolls
X1 is an innovative humanoid robot developed by researchers at the California Institute of Technology. It merges the characteristics of a humanoid, drone, and vehicle, creating a single machine capable of walking, flying, and rolling.
Engineering and design
The X1 combines two distinct systems: the Chinese-built Unitree G1 humanoid robot and Caltech’s M4 drone. The M4 is designed to transform between aerial and ground mobility. When it lands, its arms rotate and its propeller guards turn into wheels, enabling it to move like a small rover.
Transformation and control
When attached to the G1, the drone forms a hybrid unit with the appearance of a humanoid equipped with mechanical wings folded on its back. The humanoid portion can walk, climb stairs, and open doors. Upon reaching an open area, it leans forward, acting as a launchpad for the drone to take off.
Versatility in motion
The drone can operate on its own—flying through the air or switching into a rolling mode on land. Though it cannot move underwater, this system provides X1 with exceptional flexibility across multiple terrains.
"It walks, it flies, and it rolls — meet X1, the hybrid robot from Caltech that blurs the lines between humanoid, drone, and vehicle."
Development timeline
Caltech’s team spent three years perfecting the integration of these movement modes into one cohesive robotic system. The resulting machine can navigate complex environments more naturally than most existing robots.
Author’s summary: X1 is Caltech’s three-year project that merges humanoid and drone technologies into a shape-shifting robot capable of walking, flying, and rolling across diverse terrains.
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