The field of robotics has witnessed significant advancements in hybrid locomotion systems, combining multiple modes of movement to enhance adaptability and operational efficiency across diverse terrains. This paper presents a comprehensive literature review of hybrid locomotion mobile robots published between 2015 and 2025, analyzing 493 unique articles from five major academic databases. Our systematic analysis reveals a growing research interest in this domain, with annual publications increasing from limited studies in 2015 to a peak of 33 articles in 2022 across Web of Science alone. The research categorizes terrestrial hybrid locomotion systems into four main types: wheel-leg systems, independent wheel and leg mechanisms, reconfigurable/transformable wheels, and wheel-leg-track combinations. Statistical analysis shows that 298 articles appeared in single databases while 195 were cross-referenced across multiple platforms, indicating both specialized research niches and interdisciplinary collaboration. Engineering dominates the field with over 60% of publications, followed by computer science and automation. The United States and China lead in research output, contributing approximately 40% of total publications. This review identifies current trends, technological gaps, and future directions for hybrid locomotion robotics, emphasizing the critical need for adaptive systems capable of operating in complex, unpredictable environments

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The Evolution of Hybrid Locomotion Systems in Robotics: Statistical Analysis and Publication Trends

  • Buleandră Debora-Gabriela,
  • Băneasă Andrei-Ovidiu,
  • Tătar Mihai-Olimpiu

摘要

The field of robotics has witnessed significant advancements in hybrid locomotion systems, combining multiple modes of movement to enhance adaptability and operational efficiency across diverse terrains. This paper presents a comprehensive literature review of hybrid locomotion mobile robots published between 2015 and 2025, analyzing 493 unique articles from five major academic databases. Our systematic analysis reveals a growing research interest in this domain, with annual publications increasing from limited studies in 2015 to a peak of 33 articles in 2022 across Web of Science alone. The research categorizes terrestrial hybrid locomotion systems into four main types: wheel-leg systems, independent wheel and leg mechanisms, reconfigurable/transformable wheels, and wheel-leg-track combinations. Statistical analysis shows that 298 articles appeared in single databases while 195 were cross-referenced across multiple platforms, indicating both specialized research niches and interdisciplinary collaboration. Engineering dominates the field with over 60% of publications, followed by computer science and automation. The United States and China lead in research output, contributing approximately 40% of total publications. This review identifies current trends, technological gaps, and future directions for hybrid locomotion robotics, emphasizing the critical need for adaptive systems capable of operating in complex, unpredictable environments