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New Winged Robot Can Fly and Swim Like a Puffin
The New York Times • • science
Key Points:
- Researchers at M.I.T. have developed a waterproof winged robot that can both fly and swim, inspired by the diving abilities of puffins.
- The robot can plunge into water, swim underwater, and then flap its wings to take off into the air, mimicking the physical feats of diving birds.
- This innovation could assist scientists in monitoring fragile marine ecosystems more quietly and efficiently, without the need for boats or underwater equipment.
- The engineering challenge of creating a machine equally adept in air and water was significant, but the research team succeeded, as detailed in a study published in the journal Science.
- Lead researcher Dr. Raphael Zufferey emphasized the risk taken in pursuing this design, motivated by the natural capabilities of birds and confidence in engineering solutions.
