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IPFS News Link • Drones

New drone perches and walks like a bird on robotic legs

• http://www.dvice.com, Colin Druce-McFadden
Located just outside of Boston, Bhargav Gajjar sits at his desk and dreams up the drones of tomorrow. He's studied dozens of different bird species in developing his new perching drone, ultimately settling upon the American Kestrel. The clawed, robotic limbs that he's invented are aided by an on-board camera which helps in positioning the drone before it lands.
Gajjar's robotic bird legs have been designed as add-ons for small military drones as they carry out spy missions. Obviously, their ability to perch anywhere it's convenient is great for spying, but these robo-legs also act as shock absorbers and can cut deep into their perch, making posted drones difficult to remove. The legs also give the drones the ability to hoof it when flying isn't the best strategy. The next time you get the feeling you're being watched, take a better look at the trees around you, and maybe even shine a flashlight down the storm drain across the street. The government's drones could be anywhere.
 

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