Festo BionicSwift

Festo Bionic Learning Network (Germany) · 2020

Festo Bionic Learning Network (Germany) Festo BionicSwift (1)
Not soldResearch demonstrator, unveiled by Festo in early July 2020.
Not for sale (research)Not programmableRobotic swallow swarmUWB indoor GPS42 g
Not soldShipping: Not sold. Never sold.
Remote control: Not possible. Flights are planned by Festo's own UWB navigation system.
Festo ↗

Overview

The successor to SmartBird at a fraction of the weight. Five artificial swifts fly loops and tight turns autonomously in a room fitted with ultra-wideband anchors, correcting their own paths when disturbed. The feathered wing design opens gaps on the upstroke and closes on the downstroke like real plumage. A showcase project, not a product.

Specifications

CategoryFlapping-wing fliers · Flapping-wing robots
Released2020
AvailabilityNot for sale (research)
ProgrammabilityNo programmability
Best forProfessionals & labs
Vision sensorsNo vision sensors
ActuatorsMixed
AudioNo audio
Compute typeArduino / ESP32 / microcontroller, Laptop / PC as the brain
Remote controlNot programmable
Size44.5 cm body, 68 cm wingspan, 42 g
LocomotionFlapping wings with overlapping foam 'feather' lamellae, brushless motor plus two servos (wingbeat and elevator)
ComputeOn-board boards for control, radio and localisation, routes planned by a central master computer
CameraNone
SensorsUWB radio marker for localisation against room anchors
RuntimeAbout 7 min per flight
SpeedNot published
SDKNone public

Ratings & reviews

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Image credits