This week, our client BAE Systems revealed two new technology concepts it is investigating for future aircraft in partnership with City University – both inspired by the aerodynamics of the world’s fastest bird, the Peregrine Falcon.
The two pieces of technology which will increase aircraft safety and fuel efficiency, and are:
- Sensory feathers: 3D-printed polymer ‘hair’ filaments which would act like sensors on the body of an aircraft, providing an early warning system if it began to stall. This technology was developed from taking cues from the falcon’s feather vibration should they lose air flow.
- Safe swoop: A further technology has been inspired by the falcon’s ability to stabilise itself after swooping or landing by ruffling its feathers. Small flexible or hinged flaps on an aircraft could allow the wing to manoeuvre quickly and land more safely at lower speeds.