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Flying fish glide as well as birds

A study published in The Journal of Experimental Biology found that flying fish can glide better than insects and as well as birds like petrels. The research revealed that the fish's lift-to-drag ratio increased when gliding near the surface, allowing them to cover longer distances.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateSep 10, 2010

Artificial butterfly in flight and filmed

A team of Japanese researchers successfully built an ornithopter, a replica model of a swallowtail butterfly, to demonstrate its ability to fly with simple flapping motions. The study's findings suggest that flight can be achieved without feedback control, opening up possibilities for future aerodynamic systems.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalBioinspiration & Biomimetics·DateMay 20, 2010

Was it a bird or was it a plane?

A new study of extinct reptiles called kuehneosaurs shows that these early flyers used extraordinary extensions of their ribs to form large gliding surfaces on the side of the body. The research, published in Palaeontology, found that one species was more suited to parachuting than flying.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalPalaeontology·DateJul 14, 2008

Bats in flight reveal unexpected aerodynamics

Researchers have made the first measurements of bat wake fields, revealing a novel lift-generating mechanism. Bat wings are highly articulated and flexible, allowing for greater maneuverability than birds and insects. The findings could lead to the development of more efficient tiny flying machines.

SourceBrown University·JournalBioinspiration & Biomimetics·DateJan 18, 2007

Flying low-drag trucks: aerodynamic concepts & controls developed for aircraft will cut fuel use, improve control, in tractor-trailers

Researchers at Georgia Tech have applied aerodynamic concepts from aircraft to tractor-trailers, reducing drag by up to 50% and improving directional control, traction, and braking. The Circulation Control system uses compressed air to create lift and reduce rolling resistance, with potential fuel savings of up to 12%.

Engineers eavesdrop on 'aeroacoustics' of human voice

Researchers at Purdue University are creating plastic and mathematical models to analyze the aerodynamic sound of human speech. They aim to predict the consequences of surgery on the throat and develop a method to better synthesize and characterize voices for robotics and voice-recognition purposes.

SourcePurdue University·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateMar 5, 2000