By: Azman Zakaria
Photo: Noor Azreen Awang
SERDANG: Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) researchers have successfully invented an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) or a drone made of natural fibres, pineapple leaves, that has electrical resistance.
The drone, named Putra Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) or Putra UAV, is the first of such innovation to use natural fibres or biocomposites from pineapple leaves.
It can fly up to about 30 metres (100 feet) high and remain airborne for about 20 minutes.
With its special electrical resistance feature, it is capable of preventing short circuits. In addition, it is also easy to repair in the event of minor damage.
Head of the research group, Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. Mohamed Thariq Hameed Sultan, said Putra UAV is made of several structures which include a frame made of natural fibres, a motor, blades and a rechargeable battery.
He said that at present, most drones are made of