A group of engineers from the university are studying the flight properties of birds with large ranges to develop more efficient aero/aqua dynamics. They determined that by adding feather like spinal ridges to a surface, the vortexs that form as wind moves across a surface are weekend reducing drag by up to 15 percent. while the exact properties are yet to be determined. tests will continue in an attempt to decrease fuel consumption.
http://www.conservationmagazine.org/articles/v10n3/winging-it/
My response: If this is successful the increased fuel efficiency will lower the carbon footprint created by planes. This would make flying an environmently friendly mode of transit, which means that next time you decide to go on vacation you don't have to feel guilty about harming the environment.
Thamas! I think this is a great article. I think it is fantastic that we are trying to come up with ways to reduce the carbon footprint.
ReplyDelete