the metafly robotic insect uses biomimetics to mimic the real thing

french aeronautical engineer edwin van ruymbeke has exceeded goals to crowdfund his bionic bird, a remote-control robot that mimics the movement of a real bird or flying insect. metafly takes to the sky using a unique method called biomimetics, denoting synthetic methods that emulate natural processes.

images courtesy of metafly

metafly can take turns, fly fast or slow, and manoeuvre around just about anything. it weighs less than 10 grams (0.35 oz), is 19cm long (7.5 in), and has a 29cm (11.4 in) wingspan. it can reach top speeds of 18 km/h (11 mph) and has a maximum range of 100 meters (328 ft). tweaking the angle of the tail alters flight characteristics.

a two channel remote gives users the power to control metafly even in the most compact spaces. according to the promotional video, the thing is pretty much crash proof thanks to its elastic wings made of carbon fiber, liquid crystal polymer, and oriented polypropylene. there’s also and legs front and back bumpers to protect its body.

movement is handled by a mechanical coreless motor with an aluminum heat sink, powered by a hybrid lithium polymer battery. the metafly can be charged either by placing it into a dock with the remote or using a separate powerbank which enables charging without the controller. the powerbank allows for 20 full charges before needing a rejuice itself. charge time is approx. 12 minutes which allows for 8 minutes of flying time. 

the metafly is currently the subject of a kickstarter campaign where ruymbeke has surpassed his goal €30,000 with the help of 805 backers. a pledge of €69 (about US$78) will get you your own metafly, when and if they reach production. the planned retail price is €129 ($146).

project info

project name: metafly
designer: edwin van ruymbeke