Sky Sharkster
11-05-2008, 11:46 AM
Here's the latest in spy survelliance, a tiny bat-like aircraft that's being developed by the military and the University of Michigan;
http://www.inhabitat.com/2008/10/31/com-bat-solar-powered-spy-plane/
It appears to have a carbon rod wing frame, and the wing covering has tiny solar "dots" to gather energy. I assume the slots in the fuselage sides are to allow an up-and-down flapping of the wings (ornithopter). Perhaps a pivoting or articulated drive system allows the angle of attack to change between the upwards and downward stroke, to provide lift. I would also guess the wing covering is flexible, to increase camber.
No mention of weight or duration, but perhaps a tiny LiPo saves excess power or (in combination with some sort of ESC) regulates voltage to the drive system.
It would be interesting to find out what sort of R/C system it uses. Presumably it will be capable of sending and receiving data.
Interesting stuff!
Ron
http://www.inhabitat.com/2008/10/31/com-bat-solar-powered-spy-plane/
It appears to have a carbon rod wing frame, and the wing covering has tiny solar "dots" to gather energy. I assume the slots in the fuselage sides are to allow an up-and-down flapping of the wings (ornithopter). Perhaps a pivoting or articulated drive system allows the angle of attack to change between the upwards and downward stroke, to provide lift. I would also guess the wing covering is flexible, to increase camber.
No mention of weight or duration, but perhaps a tiny LiPo saves excess power or (in combination with some sort of ESC) regulates voltage to the drive system.
It would be interesting to find out what sort of R/C system it uses. Presumably it will be capable of sending and receiving data.
Interesting stuff!
Ron