Scientists from the University of Lund in Sweden conducted a rather unusual study, studying the process of flight in birds. They concluded that birds fly more efficiently because the creature folds its wings during the vertical downstroke, likely reducing energy costs and improving aerodynamics. Accordingly, the experts decided to use the results of their research to use wing folding as the next step to improve the propulsion and aerodynamic efficiency of next-generation drones. The study participants said that even the extinct bird-like dinosaurs, which are the precursors of birds, benefited from folding their wings during an upward flap.
In addition, among the flying animals currently living on planet Earth, birds are the largest and most efficient flying creatures, which makes them especially interesting as a source of inspiration for the development of drones. And on the basis of the bird’s wing, specialists from Sweden designed an analogue – a full-fledged robotic wing capable of repeating the movements of a bird and even more. In the near future, this may open the door to a world of more advanced aircraft that will have greater flight autonomy, for example.
“We’ve built a robotic wing that can flap like birds, while still allowing the drone to flap that birds simply can’t,” said Christoffer Johansson, a biology researcher at Lund University.
The researchers said their study explains why birds flap the way they do by figuring out which movement patterns create the most pulling force and are the most efficient. Now scientists will create several prototypes that will emulate all these movements and will conduct many different tests and tests. The authors of the project are sure that there are a huge number of applications for new drones created based on the characteristics of birds, because the flight range of these models will be much greater. However, so far all this is just speculation – there is no real prototype yet.
“The new drones could be used for delivery, but they need to be efficient enough to be able to lift extra weight. The way the wings move has a big impact on performance, so our study could be useful in this area, ”added the author of the study.
Source: Trash Box
Charles Grill is a tech-savvy writer with over 3 years of experience in the field. He writes on a variety of technology-related topics and has a strong focus on the latest advancements in the industry. He is connected with several online news websites and is currently contributing to a technology-focused platform.
