Researchers hope PigeonBot flying robot can inspire next generation of flight

A marriage of technology and biology could be the key to advances in autonomous flight. Researchers revealed in findings published on Wednesday, Nov. 20, in Science Robotics that they have developed the “PigeonBot II.”

The bird-like robot features an adaptive tail and wings capable of adjusting to wind conditions at a moment’s notice, just like its living counterpart.

Physicists believe that this technology could be the key to rudderless flight for unmanned aircraft, and fix stability issues long associated with planes by turbulence.

Tests conducted by the team of researchers reveal the bio-bot is capable of adjusting its tail and wings to any gust or powerful wind it encounters. The design of the aerial robot is exactly like it sounds, inspired by the pigeon, and it’s actually adorned with dozens of real pigeon feathers.

The skeleton of the machine is flexible, and its tail and wings can move like a bird. The robot runs with the help of a reflexive built in system, which uses nine motors with controls to mimic a pigeon in flight.

Researchers say the choice of a pigeon may seem like an odd choice when much faster bird designs are available, but they maintain pigeons are one of the more adaptable birds when it comes to flight maneuvers.

Researchers hope the PigeonBot II will lead to more reliable and stable flying robots.

The technology could even be adapted for military purposes, researchers say the bird-bots have a smaller radar signature than most aircraft and better performance.

Beijing is already reportedly on board with bird-like robots, revealing it’s testing the technology for spying with its military earlier this year. Other U.S. companies are also reportedly experimenting with the concept of bird robots.