The Distributed Flight Array

A short video which introduces the Distributed Flight Array (DFA) which is being developed at ETH Zurich. This multi-rotor vehicle consists of autonomous single-rotor modules that are able to drive, dock with its peers, and fly in a coordinated fashion. These modules are organized as distributed computational units with minimal sensory input. Experimental demonstrations in docking, driving, and flying have proven its feasibility as a research platform for investigating techniques in distributed estimation and control. The work shown here was completed by the 2008/9 AYIM class (http://www.andyetitmoves.org/). For more information, visit: http://www.idsc.ethz.ch/Research_DAndrea/DFA

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• aerial vehicles
• autonomous mobile robots
• multi-agent systems
• cooperation

[raymondoung]

Here, each motor is rated at 50W and we operate at around 70% duty-cycle.

[dodecahedroification]

Can 3 a three module array still fly stably, or do you need at least 4

Cool project

[raymondoung]

@dodecahedroification Since each of the modules produce equivalent amounts of thrust and torque, you do need at least 4 so that it doesn't uncontrollably yaw. In this particular arrangement of modules, two rotors are rotating clockwise and the other two are rotating counter-clockwise -- this cancels out the aerodynamic torques in trimmed flight.

[GrafArsch]

What is the intended purpose for the flight array?

[raymondoung]

@GrafArsch It's a research and teaching tool for distributed estimation and control.

[Bagatronic]

I am super intelligent.

[Hekateras]

I can almost taste the sweet days of the sci-fi future when people will be looking back on these vids with the same bewildered nostalgia we get when looking at room-sized light bulb computers...

[potpie921]

great

[darwalid]

i'd like to know how many watts the single motor consume?

thx

[helen0618]

群聚浮島或飛行器!

[triplejayvideos]

why is he wearing a glove?

[DeltaTangoCharly]

nice

[prometeo90]

@dodecahedroification tricopters exists but one motor needs a servo to change thrust direction. look for "tricopter" on youtube

[BabyyyyAshleeaj381]

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[Derantikorper]

whaa! it sounds like a tie fighter almost bahahaha adorable.