Tiny Drones Can Grab and Haul Objects 40 Times Their Size

A new type of tiny, flying robot called a 'FlyCroTug' can both perch and move objects 40 times its weight with the help of powerful winches and two previous inventions – gecko adhesives and microspines. Stanford University 's Mark Cutkosky and Matthew Estrada partnered with EPFL and NCCR Robotics in Switzerland to develop the micro aerial vehicles. Outfitted with these gripping technologies and the ability to move and pull on objects around them, two FlyCroTugs can lasso a door handle to pull the door open.