Flying Aero-robots based on Light Responsive Materials Assembly (FAIRY)

Fairy is a mythical creature having butterfly wings and magic powers. Researchers in Tampere University aim to bring it into reality in the FAIRY project, through development of the first smart-material-based small-scale flying robot that can be driven by using light energy. The outcomes of the project will broaden the views of material sciences and open new prospects in micro-robotics. What is flying? Flying is ubiquitous among natural species. The dispersal of dandelion seed upon a gust of wind, the gliding of birds, squirrels or even some fish species, and hovering flight of an insect, are all biological examples of flying. How can small soft robot fly? The key is to obtain highly sensitive aircraft wings to interact with the air flow, and fast and robust actuator to produce efficient air thrust. Of course, unsteady aerodynamics and unconventional robotic design are included in the study, which make the project highly challenging and attractive.