A paradigm shift thanks to bionics With SmartBird, Festo in its Bionic Learning Network is once again successfully transferring a natural principle to a field of technology. SmartBird provides a stimulus for turning to nature in the search for new solutions in automation. An all-encompassing mechatronic design SmartBird is an all-encompassing mechatronic and cybernetic design that combines numerous individual solutions into a fascinating whole. SmartBird could only be realised through the integration of intelligent mechanics, electrical drive technology, findings from fluid dynamics, intelligent open and closed-loop control engineering, condition monitoring and the constant scientific validation and transfer of scientific findings into practice. Festo already today puts its expertise in the field of fluid dynamics to use in the development of the latest generations of cylinders and valves. By analysing SmartBird’s flow characteristics, Festo has acquired additional knowledge for the optimisation of its product solutions and has learned to design even more efficiently. This efficiency in design allows the development of compactly dimensioned products that require less installation space and are flow-optimised, and thus more energy-efficient. Energy-efficient and resource-friendly With its optimised contours and its lightweight carbon fibre design, SmartBird is an excellent example of energy-efficient motion and of the resource-friendly use of materials. The functional integration of two types of drive into a hybrid solution likewise increases resource efficiency. Functional integration for hybrid technology This function integration provides information for the development and optimisation of hybrid drive technologies. With the hybrid axis, Festo is already combining the advantages of pneumatics with those of electric linear axes to achieve rapid, high-precision linear actuator technology. Possible fields of application The applications of coupled drives for linear and rotary movement range from generators that derive energy from water – so-called stroke wing generators – to new actuators in process automation. Inspired by the paradigm shift brought about by bionics, Festo has already in the past developed products that have met with acceptance in industry; the focus here is on energy-efficiency and conservation of resources. Safe operation through condition monitoring Data on SmartBird’s wing position and torsion are constantly registered during flight. The torsion control parameters can be adjusted in real time during flight and thus optimised. This ensures stable flight of the bird for safe operation. Condition monitoring: Process-safety ensured by permanent diagnosis Flow behaviour in the design and simulation of new products 7
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