For more than 15 years, the Bionic Learning Network has explored the magic and allure of flight and developed various flying objects. In this process, many technological applications have been realized, inspired by natural principles. The latest product of this work is BionicBee, which can fly in a swarm in a completely autonomous manner. BionicBee stands out as the smallest and lightest flying object developed by the Bionic Learning Network to date.
Features of BionicBee
The BionicBee, which weighs about 34 grams, is 22 centimeters long and has a wingspan of 24 centimeters, was developed using generative design methodology. This methodology allows the software to find the optimal structure after certain parameters are entered. In this way, the most robust structure possible is achieved using the least amount of material. This lightweight structure is the basis for BionicBee to provide good maneuverability and long flight time.
BionicBee’s flapping mechanism, communication technology and control components are housed in the bee body. A brushless motor, three servo motors, battery, gearbox and various circuit boards are mounted in a very small space. This compact structure allows the flapping frequency to be fine-tuned for various maneuvers. BionicBee can perform natural flight maneuvers with four degrees of freedom.
Autonomous Swarm Flight
BionicBee realizes autonomous swarm flight with the help of an indoor localization system with ultra-wideband technology (UWB). With the help of eight UWB anchors placed on two levels in the room, the bees can position themselves within the room. The UWB anchors send signals to individual bees, and using these signals, their position in space is calculated.
The bees fly in swarms, following paths determined by a central computer. This requires a high level of spatial and temporal accuracy. Possible interactions caused by air turbulence (“downdraft”) are also taken into account in the path planning.
The bees also have an automatic calibration function, as each bee is made by hand and even the smallest manufacturing differences can affect flight behavior. After a short test flight, each bee determines individually optimized controller parameters. In this way, the intelligent algorithm can calculate the hardware differences between individual bees and the entire swarm can be controlled from the outside as if all bees were the same.
BionicBee, Bees and Ecosystem
Bees play a vital role in our ecosystem. These tiny insects play a critical role in food production by pollinating plants. Many plant species and most fruits and vegetables thrive thanks to the pollination activities of bees. If there were no bees, there would be a massive decline in agricultural crops worldwide, leading to food shortages.
Bees are not only important for agriculture, but also for maintaining natural ecosystems. Forests, meadows and other natural areas are sustainably maintained thanks to the pollination activities of bees. Bees contribute to the conservation of biodiversity and help ecosystems function in a healthy way. Declining bee populations are a harbinger of environmental problems. Pesticides, habitat loss, disease and climate change are the main factors threatening bee populations. Protecting bees is essential for sustainable agriculture and healthy ecosystems.
Therefore, the protection of bee habitats, the careful use of pesticides and the dissemination of bee-friendly agricultural practices are of great importance. The BionicBee project is a good example of transforming the miracles of nature into technological innovations inspired by biological models. Given the role of bees in the ecosystem, such projects not only provide technological advances, but also reflect our respect and commitment to nature. Understanding the big impact of small beings like bees is an important step towards a sustainable future.
