SmartBird is an ultra-lightweight automated bird inspired by nature.
Festo has set the pace with its latest invention inspired by nature: the SmartBird, an ultra-lightweight, powerful automated bird. Inspired by the herring gull, the SmartBird has a total weight of around 450 g and a wingspan of two metres. The unusual feature of SmartBird is the active torsion of its wings without the use of additional lift devices. With a power requirement of only 23 Watts, the SmartBird is capable of generating the necessary energy to overcome air resistance and achieve propulsion and lift – solely by the flapping of its wings. The wings not only beat up and down, but they also twist at specific angles for lift and agility. This, in combination with a complex control system, makes for unprecedented efficiency in flight operation.
Measurements have demonstrated that the SmartBird has an electromechanical efficiency of around 45%; and an aerodynamic efficiency factor of up to 80%.
The purpose of the SmartBird project was to design a ground-breaking structure that is efficient in terms of resource and energy consumption, with minimal overall weight, functional integration of propulsion and lift in the wings and a flight control unit in the torso and tail regions. In addition to this, the SmartBird also displays excellent aerodynamics, high power density for propulsion, and maximum agility in flying; an overall intelligent bio-mechatronic system.
Although focused on energy efficiency and lightweight construction, the Festo SmartBird also provides novel ideas for factory and process automation, safe automation, intelligent mechatronics solutions and new drive and handling technology. The SmartBird in flight can be seen on You Tube at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nnR8fDW3Ilo
CompAir introduces compressed air management solution
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
To maximise savings and extend the lifespan of compressed air systems, CompAir is launching the Compressed Air Management Solution powered by Ecoplant, an intelligent system in the cloud that represents the next level in operational management, and maintain the health
Read more...Precision meets performance: The ELGD Axes Family from Festo Festo South Africa
Motion Control & Drives
Festo has introduced the ELGD axes family, engineered for the demands of future-focused industries. With cutting-edge guide technology, exceptional rigidity and high load capacity, these axes deliver more performance within the same installation footprint.
Read more...Festo’s customised automation solutions Festo South Africa
Motion Control & Drives
From smart pneumatics to advanced process automation, Festo offers precision-engineered technologies that enable industries to operate more efficiently, reliably and fast. The company manages the entire custom design process from concept to final commissioning, saving customers time and money while allowing them to focus on their core expertise.
Read more...Heavy impact, smart control Axiom Hydraulics
Editor's Choice Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Every now and then a project lands on your desk that’s equal parts heavy machinery and fine control - a tantalising mix for any engineer. A client approached Axiom Hydraulics with a project exactly like this.
Read more...Pneumatics makes a technological leap with the proportional valve terminal Festo South Africa
Editor's Choice Motion Control & Drives
Festo continually makes bold technological leaps to keep pace with global advancements. Controlled Pneumatics is redefining the boundaries of compressed air technology to meet the demands of today’s most advanced applications.
Read more...Making lines safer with smarter connection Hydrasales
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Imagine connecting multiple hydraulic lines or a combination of hydraulic, electrical and grease lines with one single, confident movement. That’s the everyday convenience operators get from Faster’s MultiFaster multi-coupling systems.
Read more...Achieving clean and dry compressed air Artic Driers International
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Compressed air is an expensive source of motive power so it makes good sense to supply clean, dry compressed air to your distribution system.
Read more...Navigating ISO standards in hydraulic cylinder manufacturing
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
For hydraulics professionals, understanding and leveraging ISO standards is a powerful way to ensure quality and gain a competitive edge. Here is a guide to the most critical ISO standards for hydraulic cylinder manufacturing, showing how to use them to your advantage.
Read more...Hydraulic system upgrades to boost performance and save money CT Hydraulics (Nqoba)
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Those working with hydraulic or pneumatic systems know that keeping your machinery running at peak performance balances productivity and cost. As systems age, they often become less efficient, requiring more energy and more frequent repairs. The good news is that you don’t always need to invest in an entirely new machine to solve these problems.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.
printer friendly version