Modeled after a seagull, the SmartBird uses a single drive system for flight –
but that simple system is enough for the robot to take off, maneuver, and land autonomously.
Using Zigbee radio communication, the SmartBird continuously passes information on its flight to an off-board computer that tracks, and improves, its movements. The result is a robot that seems to glide as smoothly and easily as the real thing.
This was as equally awe-inspiring as it was creepy to me at first glance, this particular technology will really advance surveillance to a draconian level. One could be sitting in a park having casual conversation, and not even realize the bird overhead is recording their every word & gesture.
reminds me of DARPA's "nano hummingbird":
...also from Festo, the air penguin:
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