RUFFWEAR MONOCOPTER TOY
Inspired by the design of a maple seed, this monocopter toy features a counterweight on one side made from rubber and a single wing on the other, crafted from Ruffwear’s signature durable, waterproof fabric. The idea stemmed from observing hunting dogs and their natural instinct to watch prey falling from the sky. Unlike a typical ball that simply rolls away, this monocopter toy descends slowly, creating a moment of anticipation as it spirals down, keeping the dog engaged and excited.
Maple seeds generate a tornado-like vortex that sits atop the front leading edge of the seeds as they spin slowly to the ground. This leading-edge vortex lowers the air pressure over the upper surface of the maple seed, effectively sucking the wing upward to oppose gravity, giving it a boost. The vortex doubles the lift generated by the seeds compared to non swirling seeds.” (Caltech Media Relations 2009)
