AirPenguin

Year

2009

The idea

A group of artificial penguins moves autonomously through the air.

The objective

The agile AirPenguins move freely and independently, while exhibiting collective behaviour.

Technical data

• Length: 370 cm
• Torso diameter: 88 cm
• Helium volume: 0.980 m3
• Wingspan: 248 cm
• Weight: 1.0 kg
• Buoyancy chamber: aluminised foil
• Head and tail segments: 3D Fin Ray structure
• Wings: extruded polyurethane foam
• Wing spar: carbon fibre rod
• Power supply: 2 lithium-polymer batteries, 4.2 V, 2000 mAh

Dynamics

The AirPenguins can rapidly regulate their altitude, move apart or maintain their current position. Thanks to intelligent regulation and control technology, they do not collide and can perform synchronised manoeuvres as a group with maximum autonomy. Ultrasonic transmitter stations constantly scan the defined airspace; the registered data is exchanged between the stations and the individual penguins.

Structure

The head and tail segments of these helium-filled airships with three-dimensional Fin Ray structure can move freely in all directions. Attached to each end of the ballonet are four carbon fibre rods configured as a pyramid; these are held together by several rings. When a force is applied, the nose or tail section bends in the opposite direction, like a fish’s fin.

Material

AirPenguin