Robot butterfly could inspire future aerodynamic systems
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A group of Japanese researchers have succeeded in building a fully functional replica model – an ornithopter – of a swallowtail butterfly.
The swallowtail is viewed as a possible model for future aerodynamic systems because of its unique ability to fly forward with simple flapping motions and no feedback control.
In order to prove their ability to recreate such methods of flight, the researchers built a lifelike ornithopter in the same dimensions as the butterfly, copying the swallowtail’s distinct wing shape and the thin membranes and veins that cover its wings. The team then used motion analysis software to monitor the ornithopter’s aerodynamic performance.
Readers' comments (2)
Anonymous | 21 May 2010 12:52 pm
I have one of these. You can buy them in toy shops
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John | 21 May 2010 3:11 pm
This is old news, ten years ago an old model aeroplane aquaintance was building far superior versions based on a damselfly with four wings instead of two, this evened out the crankshaft loading and eliminated the jerky movement you can see in this example. His models were powered by rubber bands, as apparently is this one.
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