Ornithopters will take over the world, eventually. The motor car is obsolete, dangerous and an environmental hazard. It also requires much less energy to move a light plane than what is ostensibly required to grind a Sherman tank along the ground. As ornithopters eat the wind, direction does not matter much for taking off and landing. The best way to regulate this in overcrowded areas, is to have an onboard computer which dictates that height and direction have a strict relationship. Thus all ornithopters, travelling west must be at a height of 800m. These numbers are arbitrary at this stage, and can be multiplied or added to. For instance 1800m can also be designated as a westerley height. In order to regulate turning in busy skies, I have devised this protocol :
Grey blocks are buildings. Red is for landing and descending; green for take-off and climbing. Thus turning left requires a descent, whereas turning right requires an ascent. (Right hand: up a bit. Left hand: down a bit.) If this appears a bit confusing at first, that is OK, as a computer will co-ordinate the flight paths, with a manual override for safety reasons.

This 3-d model is dubbed the 'Dragonfly'

The navigational ability of this craft allows that much energy is saved in that it utilizes wind to power it, not unlike a sailing yacht. Paragliding skills would be essential. Remember, excess energy as lift will have to be controlled in the case of strong headwinds. A dynamo that charges would be more energy efficient than a normal brake. But overloading of the battery also must be catered for. Flying at 45 degrees into a stiff wind, will provide a temporary state of perpetual motion, requiring zero power. Conventional sailing techniques will be useful. Sky-sailing.... hmmm... now theres another nexus of ideas...

The air-wheel could also be called the pixiwing, in honour of my alleged wife. She has not spoken to me for 3 years. Interested in that whole sad love story? Click here.

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