Inspired by nature, Festo release dragonfly robot

Taking inspiration from the way dragonflies hover in mid-air, glide and manoeuvre, the automation technology specialist has set its BionicOpter free 

Festo has demonstrated its mastery of the highly complex flight characteristics of the dragonfly by developing an ultra lightweight flying model, capable of flying in all directions, glide effortlessly without beating its wings and hover in mid-air.

Following on from the success of its SmartBird and AirPenguin, the remotely controlled BionicOpter showcases wireless real-time communication, a continuous information exchange – as well as the ability to combine sensor evaluations and indentify complex events and critical states.

The BionicOpter´s unique flying method is achieved through a combination of lightweight construction and function integration. Components such as sensor, actuators and mechanical parts, as well as open and closed-loop control systems are installed in a very tight space and adapted to one another.

Each of the robot’s four carbon fibre wings is capable of independent movement and powered by an array of servo motors. Able to fly inside or out, the combination of tilt and thrust regulation allows the remote dragonfly to hold almost any position in space.

A global leader in automation technology and a world-class provider of industrial training and education, Festo’s pneumatic and electric drive technology epitomises innovation in industrial and process automation, offering its 15,000 customers everything from individual products to ready-to-install solutions.

Fuente: manufactiringdigital.com