Technology plays a pivotal role when it comes to defense. But, what catapults it to the headline is the innovation with technology, merging it meticulously with nature, which at times leaves its ‘inspirations’ confused.
And birds would surely draw inspiration from a newly designed robotic bird that can fly across the skies without a peep - what is called perfect sweep.
It is not just a simple robot, inspired by a bird’s behaviors just to entertain us. It can do the ‘ground surveillance’ job rigorously, without anyone’s notice. Thanks to the engineering students for designing their ‘RoboSwift,’ measuring 20 inches (51 centimeters) from wingtip to wingtip and weighing less than three ounces (80 grams).
What is amazing is the robot’s capability to fly up to five times the distance to the moon and back during its lifetime! Ah! That adds up to more than 2 million miles (more than 3 million kilometers).
The common swift fly by constantly morphing its wings by responding to the prevailing flight conditions. The bird can also change its wing shape and the surface area, by folding its feathers over one another, sweeping them back and forth.
These feathery adjustments help the ‘little spy bird’ maintain its flight efficiency as well as maneuverability.
By its features, the robotic bird seems to look like a ‘micro airplane’ which will soar into the air in January 2008.
So, ‘humans’ be aware! Next time you see a hovering bird above your head, give a second thought.
