Woodpecker-inspired drone endures 70% head-on collisions impact

Researchers at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) have developed a fixed-wing drone named SWIFT (Shockproof Woodpecker-Inspired Flying Tensegrity) that significantly improves collision resilience by mimicking the unique skull structure of woodpeckers. Woodpeckers endure repeated high-impact pecking without brain injury due to a combination of a rigid beak, a flexible hyoid bone wrapping around the skull, a spongy bone layer, and extra space around the brain that redirects impact forces. SWIFT replicates these features using tensegrity structures composed of carbon fiber rods, elastic cables, and plastic brackets to protect its electronic components, motor, and propeller by allowing them to move and absorb collision energy rather than transferring it directly. Beyond the fuselage, SWIFT’s wings incorporate a network of elastic cables and carbon fiber rods inspired by the shock-absorbing connective tissues in bird wing joints, reducing the risk of wing damage during impacts