Flying Animal Maneuverability and Adaptability: Lessons for UAV Design

It is challenging to operate uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) in cluttered or unpredictable environments. In contrast, flying animals regularly accomplish an impressive array of in-flight transitions, from maneuvering through cities, evading predators or gliding in gusty conditions. Many biological flyers rapidly adapt and maneuver in these variable flight conditions by actively or passively adjusting their wing or tail shape in flight, known as morphing. Here I highlight my analysis of characteristics of biological flight that are associated with maneuverability and adaptability. My goal is to identify which of these biological traits surpass modern aircraft flight performance, stability, and control capabilities and determine how these traits can be incorporated into UAV designs. In this way, my work both enhances our understanding of biological flight and advances the design of highly maneuverable and adaptable UAVs.