The four independent wheels and the design of the ROVéo terrestrial robot allows it to easily negotiate obstacles up to two-thirds of its own height while maintaining its cruising speed. One motor at each extremity and clever mechanicals give it an astounding flexibility and the appearance of a tortoise or armadillo.

Emerging from the carapace, each of its similar legs is connected to the others by a single degree of freedom. This allows the robot to easily adapt to any terrain - with holes or bumps - and to more regular obstacles such as steps.

The young Rovenso team is also developing a remote control system equipped with immersive vision and force feedback, Guiding the vehicle is achieved by synchronising the angle of the front and rear wheels. This permits very precise movement - the robot can turn on its own footprint to easily exit from a dead end.

A bigger version of this prototype, equipped with a robotic arm, could assist in the dismantling of nuclear installations