The evolution of flight in birds led to a highly specialized appendicular apparatus. The transformation into wings limited the functional versatility of the forelimbs and, thus, the avian neck became the functional equivalent of the arm. In combination with the beak, the head-neck system of birds acts as a tool-bearing arm.The objective of the project Avineck is to better understand the relationship between the anatomy of the neck in birds, its mechanical properties, function and evolution. Ultimately, these new insights will be applied to robotics in order to indicate solutions for the technological challenges that current robotics are facing.
An international team, consisting of biologists, paleontologists and engineers from France and Spain, works together in this highly interdisciplinary project.