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Chinese scientists introduced RoboFalcon 2.0, a flapping-wing robot capable of self-takeoff and low-speed flight management. It essentially attempts to address two significant flaws in RoboFalcon version one that might enhance efficiency: first, it cannot go slowly, and second, it requires assistance to take off. Its reconfigurable wings weigh 800 grams and integrate the flapping, sweeping, and folding actions in a single wingbeat, marking a significant advancement in avian-inspired robotics. This is consistent with the researchers' recommendations for bird-style takeoff and improved pitch and roll regulation in the air.
RoboFalcon 2.0 mimics bird wing motions for self-takeoff and stable low-speed flight
According to a research published in Science Advances, most earlier bio-inspired flying robots used simple one-dimensional wing movements, similar to those of insects or hummingbirds. In contrast, the RoboFalcon 2.0 replicates the three-dimensional kinematics of birds and bats. Sweeping wings increase lift and pitching motion, as demonstrated by wind tunnel and modeling data. The flexible wing application could execute assisted-free takeoffs, increasing the design's efficacy, and also demonstrated real-world capabilities.
The researchers explain that ventral downstrokes paired with curled upstrokes provide the necessary lift, and that the thrust for takeoff is similar to that of real bird flight. It often underappreciated how the changeable wing system helps to limit the complexity of flight control.
RoboFalcon 2.0 demonstrated low-speed stability and self-takeoff capabilities; nevertheless, it also revealed significant shortcomings, including no yaw control and poor energy economy. Future enhancements have been advocated by experts to advance avian-inspired robotics and develop new techniques for robotic locomotion research in terms of stability and more efficient energy utilization.
