Dead birds as drones: sounds macabre, but could be useful
Researchers have built two flapping wing drones that are partly made of dead birds. This is to monitor wild animals.
A research group at New Mexico Tech University has used bird specimens to make two flapping wing drones look like birds. The first drone has a real head and the wings of a pheasant. In the second, everything except the feathers is artificial.
The researchers are aware that there are unanswered questions about the ethics of these devices. Their aim is to investigate whether they can use them to monitor wildlife more seamlessly and naturally. The drones are spies that look and behave like birds. Or at least should behave like them one day. As can be seen in the video, there is still room for improvement.
In order to achieve their goal, the group uses computer simulations. This allows them to determine the wing flapping and aerodynamics for a desired wing set. The result is a somewhat sluggish pheasant that can soar and glide. The researchers are not yet able to control it in a truly targeted manner.
The group is certain that a bird drone will do a good job of monitoring nature. However, they admit that drone construction is proving difficult. She has a few improvements in mind: Firstly, the bird robots should be redesigned so that they look more natural overall. Bendable wrists could lead to more flexible wings and better flight characteristics. Helical gears should also reduce noise and extend the service life of the drone. More battery life could be achieved with legs that allow the drone to monitor while seated. <p
I find my muse in everything. When I don’t, I draw inspiration from daydreaming. After all, if you dream, you don’t sleep through life.