A Novel Unmanned Aerial-Ground Hybrid Vehicle for Rescue Missions and Extreme-Duty Operations

Abstract

The increasing demand for versatile unmanned systems in high-risk environments has driven the need for hybrid aerial-ground solutions that overcome the limitations of conventional drones and ground vehicles. This paper introduces a novel unmanned aerial-ground hybrid vehicle engineered for rescue missions and extreme-duty operations, addressing the limitations of conventional aerial drones and ground vehicles. The proposed system integrates a dual-mode operational framework, enabling seamless transitions between aerial and terrestrial mobility for enhanced adaptability in complex environments. A foldable wing mechanism is developed to optimize spatial efficiency, allowing the system to operate in confined spaces while ensuring rapid deployment in critical scenarios. The vehicle's tank wheel, i.e., continuous track, configuration enhances traction and stability on rugged terrains, while an advanced navigation and monitoring system facilitates precise control and real-time data transmission in remote locations. The prototype underwent rigorous systematic prototyping and experimental validation, demonstrating high stability, efficient maneuverability, and autonomous return-to-base functionality under emergency conditions. This multi-functional robotic platform presents groundbreaking applications in disaster response, search and rescue operations, hazardous environment monitoring, and industrial infrastructure inspections, paving the way for next-generation hybrid unmanned systems with enhanced autonomy, resilience, and operational efficiency.