Student Today / Tiras Lin

Tiras Lin, an Undergraduate engineer at the university, is part of a team that are hoping to improve the next generation of insect-sized robots with flying capability by trying to unravel the secrets of insect flight and maneuverability.
Tiras Lin has found that butterflies change their weight distribution and use their wings to change speed in a similar way that ice-skaters do when they wish to complete a complex maneuver.
The team at John Hopkins believe this research will alter how we study insect movement in the future, but more importantly, will push the boundaries of what can be done with small robotic models. It is hoped that this research will be considered by current MAV designers who could benefit from additional knowledge.