Birds of prey inspire new type of drone

At the University of Surrey, scientists are developing a new kind of drone inspired by birds of prey such as owls and raptors. These birds are known for their ability to fly skillfully, perch on branches, and move through tight spaces. Dr Olaf Marxen and his team from the mechanical engineering sciences department are leading a project called Learning2Fly. Their goal is to create drones that can maneuver easily in cities, especially where there are tall buildings and unpredictable winds. By studying how birds of prey fly and perch, the researchers hope to make drones that are more agile and better suited for urban environments.

Instead of only using computer simulations to test their ideas, the team is conducting real-world experiments in the university's motion capture lab. This lab allows them to track the drones' movements with great accuracy. The data they collect from these experiments is then used to train a machine learning model. This model helps the team predict how the drones will behave in different situations, making it easier to improve their designs.

Owen Wastell, a PhD student and co-lead of the project, says the early results are very promising. He finds it fascinating that even with all the advanced technology available today, scientists still look to nature for inspiration. Birds of prey have evolved over millions of years to become expert flyers, and now their skills are helping engineers create smarter drones. The researchers believe their work could change how drones are used in cities, making them safer and more effective for tasks like delivering packages or monitoring traffic. If you have any ideas or stories to share, BBC Surrey invites you to get in touch.