3D-printed robotic birds of prey are undergoing trials

[PhysOrg]

Robirds are remotely controlled robotic birds with the realistic appearance and weight of real birds. They were designed to use flapping wing flight for propulsion, with a flight performance comparable to real birds. With that in mind, and one needs little else motivation, viewers are able to enjoy just watching these Robirds, narration-free, cross the sky. The catchphrase from the company behind the birds, the Netherlands-based Clear Flight Solutions, is "We create birds." They are not just making the robots for fun or hobby pursuits; rather, they are addressing the problems of birds and aviation safety. As the company said, it may be marvelous to see birds flying through the skies but they can represent a lot of problems in waste management, agriculture, and aviation, and nothing tops the risks that birds cause at airports, said the company video. The little flyers can put the airplanes and their passengers at risk. The company has designed Robirds to mimic birds of prey, and these keep real birds at bay, with the birds assuming they are being threatened by the real deal. Birds learn to avoid the hunting grounds of the Robird. just as they would real birds posing danger.

 

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