Study flying birds to make robot pilots

Scientists have conducted a study to find out how birds not only fly fast but also correctly jog through the jungles. This would be the premise for the creation of robotic pilots that automatically control flying equipment.

Scientists at Harvard University have attached tiny pigeon cameras and trained them to fly through artificial forests. Thus, the way the bird's eye sees the obstacle on the flight path will be reproduced through the image captured by the camera during movement. Dr. Huai Ti Lin, who led the research team, said that this would be very helpful for pilots who are self-identified in flight and remote control.

The pigeon was chosen for the experiment because it had a panoramic view of about 300 degrees and rolled its eyes very fast to orient. In addition, only a small movement at the head of the pigeon can extend the view.

The results of this study were published at the Annual Experimental Biology Conference in Glasgow. Researchers' reports also show that skilled birds choose the shortest route through straight lines. This not only helps them save energy but also shortens the running time. The other interesting thing is that the birds are able to escape from the artificial forest in the exact direction they fly, although the structure of the forest is as complex as a maze.

This application will be very spectacular for robot pilots or unmanned aerial vehicles. By simply providing the device the coordinates of the destination without providing all the obstacles on the route.