Abstract: A winged device has an axial support which is mounted for reciprocating rotary motion about a longitudinal axis of the support. A first wing vane is mounted to the axial support for rotation with the axial support. A second wing vane is mounted to the axial support. A cam follower is constrained to a defined movement path by a cam. A first connector connects the first wing vane to the cam follower such that the cam follower is moved along the cam by the first connector as the first wing vane moves with rotation of the axial support about its longitudinal axis. A second connector connects the second wing vane to the cam follower such that the second wing vane is moved by the second connector as the cam follower member is moved along the cam. The cam profile is defined relative to the axis of the axial support such that the relative orientation of the wing vanes changes as the axial support is rotated.

Abstract: A drive assembly for use with a mechanical flying or walking device comprises an articulated member (7) having first and second portions (7a, 7b) arranged such that the portions move relative to each other, and a drive mechanism (9) for imparting motion to the articulated member. The drive mechanism (9) comprises: a drive member for imparting a cyclic motion on the articulated member, and a control member for controlling, in a predetermined manner, the relative position of the first and second portions during each cycle of the cyclic motion of the articulated member. In the case of a mechanical flying device, two such drive assemblies may be provided, the articulated member of each assembly forming a wing.

Abstract: A drive assembly for use with a mechanical flying or walking device comprises an articulated member (7) having first and second portions (7a, 7b) arranged such that the portions move relative to each other, and a drive mechanism (9) for imparting motion to the articulated member. The drive mechanism (9) comprises: a drive member for imparting a cyclic motion on the articulated member, and a control member for controlling, in a predetermined manner, the relative position of the first and second portions during each cycle of the cyclic motion of the articulated member. In the case of a mechanical flying device, two such drive assemblies may be provided, the articulated member of each assembly forming a wing.