Journal articles on the topic 'Insect Flapping'
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1
Eberle, A. L., B. H. Dickerson, P. G. Reinhall, and T. L. Daniel. "A new twist on gyroscopic sensing: body rotations lead to torsion in flapping, flexing insect wings." Journal of The Royal Society Interface 12, no. 104 (March 2015): 20141088. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rsif.2014.1088.
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Insects perform fast rotational manoeuvres during flight. While two insect orders use flapping halteres (specialized organs evolved from wings) to detect body dynamics, it is unknown how other insects detect rotational motions. Like halteres, insect wings experience gyroscopic forces when they are flapped and rotated and recent evidence suggests that wings might indeed mediate reflexes to body rotations. But, can gyroscopic forces be detected using only changes in the structural dynamics of a flapping, flexing insect wing? We built computational and robotic models to rotate a flapping wing about an axis orthogonal to flapping. We recorded high-speed video of the model wing, which had a flexural stiffness similar to the wing of the Manduca sexta hawkmoth, while flapping it at the wingbeat frequency of Manduca (25 Hz). We compared the three-dimensional structural dynamics of the wing with and without a 3 Hz, 10° rotation about the yaw axis. Our computational model revealed that body rotation induces a new dynamic mode: torsion. We verified our result by measuring wing tip displacement, shear strain and normal strain of the robotic wing. The strains we observed could stimulate an insect's mechanoreceptors and trigger reflexive responses to body rotations.
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Ge, Cheng Bin, Ai Hong Ji, Tao Han, and Chang Long Li. "Anatomical Study of Insect Flight Structure." Applied Mechanics and Materials 461 (November 2013): 31–36. http://dx.doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/amm.461.31.
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Compared with the fixed-wing and rotary-wing aerial vehicle, the bionic ornithopter has unique advantages in flying maneuverability and flexibilities, becoming one of the focuses of current researches. Because of their high speeds, long distance flight sand low energy consumptions, more and more attentions has been paid to flying insects. Their unique physical structures and flight modes will enlighten the bionic ornithopter. In this paper, four insects flight-related muscle biological structures were dissected to specify the effects of the muscles. Then the flapping wing behavior of two of these insects was tested to guide for design of the bionic ornithopter. The anatomic results showed that they commonly own the dorsoventral muscles, whose weight proportions increase with their body wall thickness. The three-dimensional flapping traces of Dragonflies and Uangs are respectively 8-shape and resemble-8-shape. With combines of anatomy and flapping wing behavior test, the dorsoventral muscle and the tergal longitudinal muscle affect some flight parameters (flapping wing frequency, flapping wing angle, flapping wing movement, etc.). But these flight parameters changes were not sure entirely caused by the muscles. The study of insect physiology structure and flight mode not only can help the further understanding of the production mechanism of high-lift when insects flying, but also can provide theoretical support for development of the bionic ornithopter.
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Yanagisawa, Ryota, Shunsuke Shigaki, Kotaro Yasui, Dai Owaki, Yasuhiro Sugimoto, Akio Ishiguro, and Masahiro Shimizu. "Wearable Vibration Sensor for Measuring the Wing Flapping of Insects." Sensors 21, no. 2 (January 15, 2021): 593. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/s21020593.
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In this study, we fabricated a novel wearable vibration sensor for insects and measured their wing flapping. An analysis of insect wing deformation in relation to changes in the environment plays an important role in understanding the underlying mechanism enabling insects to dynamically interact with their surrounding environment. It is common to use a high-speed camera to measure the wing flapping; however, it is difficult to analyze the feedback mechanism caused by the environmental changes caused by the flapping because this method applies an indirect measurement. Therefore, we propose the fabrication of a novel film sensor that is capable of measuring the changes in the wingbeat frequency of an insect. This novel sensor is composed of flat silver particles admixed with a silicone polymer, which changes the value of the resistor when a bending deformation occurs. As a result of attaching this sensor to the wings of a moth and a dragonfly and measuring the flapping of the wings, we were able to measure the frequency of the flapping with high accuracy. In addition, as a result of simultaneously measuring the relationship between the behavior of a moth during its search for an odor source and its wing flapping, it became clear that the frequency of the flapping changed depending on the frequency of the odor reception. From this result, a wearable film sensor for an insect that can measure the displacement of the body during a particular behavior was fabricated.
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Chi, Peng Cheng, Wei Ping Zhang, Wen Yuan Chen, Hong Yi Li, and Kun Meng. "Design, Fabrication and Analysis of Microrobotic Insect Wings and Thorax with Different Materials by MEMS Technology." Advanced Materials Research 291-294 (July 2011): 3135–38. http://dx.doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/amr.291-294.3135.
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This paper presents a feasibility step in the development of biomimetic microrobotic insects. Advanced engineering technologies available for applications such as the micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) technologies are used. A flapping-wing flying MEMS concept and design inspired from insects is first described. Then different kinds of materials used feasibly for flapping-wing microrobotic insect by MEMS technology, such as SU-8, Titanium alloy and Parylene-C, are discussed. And artificial insect wings and thoraxs with different materials by MEMS Technology are fabricated and analyzed. Finally, summarize the paper and propose future research priorities.
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Conn, A. T., S. C. Burgess, and C. S. Ling. "Design of a parallel crank-rocker flapping mechanism for insect-inspired micro air vehicles." Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part C: Journal of Mechanical Engineering Science 221, no. 10 (September 30, 2007): 1211–22. http://dx.doi.org/10.1243/09544062jmes517.
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In the current paper, a novel micro air vehicle (MAV) flapping mechanism for replicating insect wing kinematics is presented. Insects flap their wings in a complex motion that enables them to generate several unsteady aerodynamic mechanisms, which are extremely beneficial for lift production. A flapping wing MAV that can reproduce these aerodynamic mechanisms in a controlled manner is likely to outperform alternative flight platforms such as rotary wing MAVs. A biomimetic design approach was undertaken to develop a novel flapping mechanism, the parallel crank-rocker (PCR). Unlike several existing flapping mechanisms (which are compared using an original classification method), the PCR mechanism has an integrated flapping and pitching output motion which is not constrained. This allows the wing angle of attack, a key kinematic parameter, to be adjusted and enables the MAV to enact manoeuvres and have flight stability. Testing of a near-MAV scale PCR prototype using a high-speed camera showed that the flapping angle and adjustable angle of attack both closely matched predicted values, proving the mechanism can replicate insect wing kinematics. A mean lift force of 3.35 g was measured with the prototype in a hovering orientation and flapping at 7.15 Hz.
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ZHANG, XIAOHU, KIM BOON LUA, RONG CHANG, TEE TAI LIM, and KHOON SENG YEO. "EXPERIMENTAL STUDY OF GROUND EFFECT ON THREE-DIMENSIONAL INSECT-LIKE FLAPPING MOTION." International Journal of Modern Physics: Conference Series 34 (January 2014): 1460384. http://dx.doi.org/10.1142/s2010194514603846.
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This paper focuses on an experimental investigation aimed at evaluating the aerodynamics force characteristics of three-dimensional (3D) insect-like flapping motion in the vicinity of ground. The purpose is to establish whether flapping wing insects can derive aerodynamic benefit from ground effect similar to that experienced by a fixed wing aircraft. To evaluate this, force measurements were conducted in a large water tank using a 3D flapping mechanism capable of executing various insect flapping motions. Here, we focus on three types of flapping motions, namely simple harmonic flapping motion, hawkmoth-like hovering motion and fruitfly-like hovering motion, and two types of wing planforms (i.e. hawkmoth-like wing and fruitfly-like wing). Results show that hawkmoth-like wing executing simple harmonic flapping motion produces average lift to drag ratio [Formula: see text] similar to that of fruitfly wing executing the same motion. In both cases, they are relatively independent of the wing distance from the ground. On the other hand, a hawkmoth wing executing hawkmoth flapping motion produces [Formula: see text] characteristic different from that of fruitfly wing executing fruitfly motion. While the [Formula: see text] value of the former is a function of the wing distance from the ground, the latter is minimally affected by ground effect. Unlike fixed wing aerodynamics, all the flapping wing cases considered here do not show a monotonic increase in [Formula: see text] with decreasing wing distance from the ground.
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Qin, Yi, Wei Ping Zhang, Wen Yuan Cheng, Wu Liu, Hong Yi Li, Peng Cheng Chi, Kun Meng, Feng Cui, and Xiao Sheng Wu. "Flapping Mechanism Design and Aerodynamic Analysis for the Flapping Wing Micro Air Vehicle." Advanced Materials Research 291-294 (July 2011): 1543–46. http://dx.doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/amr.291-294.1543.
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This paper introduces a biological flapping micro air vehicle (FMAV) with four wings, instead of two wings, where wing clap-and-fling of real insects has been mimicked. The total weight is 2.236g. A spatial linkage is implemented in the flapping wing system, which is symmetry. This can prevent the flapping wing MAV from tilting toward the left or the right in the course of flight. By using the computational fluid dynamics (CFD), it has been confirmed that the flapping wing system can utilize the clap-and-fling mechanism, which is essential to enhance the lift and thrust in the insect flight.
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Dong, Ben Zheng, Chang Long Li, and Ai Hong Ji. "Bionic Flexible Wings Design of the Flapper." Applied Mechanics and Materials 461 (November 2013): 178–83. http://dx.doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/amm.461.178.
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The fixed-wing aircrafts rely mainly on thrust generated by engine and lift produced by wings to keep flying, so there are strict requirements on their speeds and attack angles. The flappers can hover freely in the air like insects because they have different flight principles and forms compared with fixed-wing aircrafts. The flapper is consisted of the flapping-wing, the flapping-wing mechanism and the drive. The flapping-wing is used to generate lifts and thrusts while the wing mechanism and the drive provide main power to the flapping wing. Traditionally, flapper uses rigid wing to provide lift and thrust force. The researches of the insect flapping wing process indicate insect wings would produce certain flexibility and umbrella effect in this process. Based on the above research, the compression molding is employed to manufacture the bionic flexible wing in this article. Whats more, in order to imitate the umbrella deformations at the wing tips, IPMC (Ionic Polymer Metal-Composites) are fixed on the flexible wings to achieve umbrella deformations.
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Liu, Hao, Sridhar Ravi, Dmitry Kolomenskiy, and Hiroto Tanaka. "Biomechanics and biomimetics in insect-inspired flight systems." Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences 371, no. 1704 (September 26, 2016): 20150390. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rstb.2015.0390.
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Insect- and bird-size drones—micro air vehicles (MAV) that can perform autonomous flight in natural and man-made environments are now an active and well-integrated research area. MAVs normally operate at a low speed in a Reynolds number regime of 10 4 –10 5 or lower, in which most flying animals of insects, birds and bats fly, and encounter unconventional challenges in generating sufficient aerodynamic forces to stay airborne and in controlling flight autonomy to achieve complex manoeuvres. Flying insects that power and control flight by flapping wings are capable of sophisticated aerodynamic force production and precise, agile manoeuvring, through an integrated system consisting of wings to generate aerodynamic force, muscles to move the wings and a control system to modulate power output from the muscles. In this article, we give a selective review on the state of the art of biomechanics in bioinspired flight systems in terms of flapping and flexible wing aerodynamics, flight dynamics and stability, passive and active mechanisms in stabilization and control, as well as flapping flight in unsteady environments. We further highlight recent advances in biomimetics of flapping-wing MAVs with a specific focus on insect-inspired wing design and fabrication, as well as sensing systems. This article is part of the themed issue ‘Moving in a moving medium: new perspectives on flight’.
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Galiński, Cezary, and Rafał Żbikowski. "Insect-like flapping wing mechanism based on a double spherical Scotch yoke." Journal of The Royal Society Interface 2, no. 3 (May 18, 2005): 223–35. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rsif.2005.0031.
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We describe the rationale, concept, design and implementation of a fixed-motion (non-adjustable) mechanism for insect-like flapping wing micro air vehicles in hover, inspired by two-winged flies (Diptera). This spatial (as opposed to planar) mechanism is based on the novel idea of a double spherical Scotch yoke. The mechanism was constructed for two main purposes: (i) as a test bed for aeromechanical research on hover in flapping flight, and (ii) as a precursor design for a future flapping wing micro air vehicle. Insects fly by oscillating (plunging) and rotating (pitching) their wings through large angles, while sweeping them forwards and backwards. During this motion the wing tip approximately traces a ‘figure-of-eight’ or a ‘banana’ and the wing changes the angle of attack (pitching) significantly. The kinematic and aerodynamic data from free-flying insects are sparse and uncertain, and it is not clear what aerodynamic consequences different wing motions have. Since acquiring the necessary kinematic and dynamic data from biological experiments remains a challenge, a synthetic, controlled study of insect-like flapping is not only of engineering value, but also of biological relevance. Micro air vehicles are defined as flying vehicles approximately 150 mm in size (hand-held), weighing 50–100 g, and are developed to reconnoitre in confined spaces (inside buildings, tunnels, etc.). For this application, insect-like flapping wings are an attractive solution and hence the need to realize the functionality of insect flight by engineering means. Since the semi-span of the insect wing is constant, the kinematics are spatial; in fact, an approximate figure-of-eight/banana is traced on a sphere. Hence a natural mechanism implementing such kinematics should be (i) spherical and (ii) generate mathematically convenient curves expressing the figure-of-eight/banana shape. The double spherical Scotch yoke design has property (i) by definition and achieves (ii) by tracing spherical Lissajous curves.
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Banazadeh, Afshin, and Neda Taymourtash. "Nonlinear Dynamic Modeling and Simulation of an Insect-Like Flapping Wing." Applied Mechanics and Materials 555 (June 2014): 3–10. http://dx.doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/amm.555.3.
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The main objective of this paper is to present the modeling and simulation of open loop dynamics of a rigid body insect-like flapping wing. The most important aerodynamic mechanisms that explain the nature of the flapping flight, including added mass, rotational lift and delayed stall, are modeled. Wing flapping kinematics is described using appropriate reference frames and three degree of freedom for each wing with respect to the insect body. In order to simulate nonlinear differential equations of motion, 6DOF model of the insect-like flapping wing is developed, followed by an evaluation of the simulation results in hover condition.
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Richter, Charles, and Hod Lipson. "Untethered Hovering Flapping Flight of a 3D-Printed Mechanical Insect." Artificial Life 17, no. 2 (April 2011): 73–86. http://dx.doi.org/10.1162/artl_a_00020.
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This project focuses on developing a flapping-wing hovering insect using 3D-printed wings and mechanical parts. The use of 3D printing technology has greatly expanded the possibilities for wing design, allowing wing shapes to replicate those of real insects or virtually any other shape. It has also reduced the time of a wing design cycle to a matter of minutes. An ornithopter with a mass of 3.89 g has been constructed using the 3D printing technique and has demonstrated an 85-s passively stable untethered hovering flight. This flight exhibits the functional utility of printed materials for flapping-wing experimentation and ornithopter construction and for understanding the mechanical principles underlying insect flight and control.
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Syaifuddin, Moh, Hoon Cheol Park, Kwang Joon Yoon, and Nam Seo Goo. "Design and Test of Flapping Device Mimicking Insect Flight." Key Engineering Materials 306-308 (March 2006): 1163–68. http://dx.doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/kem.306-308.1163.
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This paper addresses detail design and demonstration of an insect-mimicking flappingwing mechanism composed of LIPCA (Lightweight Piezo-Composite Actuator) and linkage system that can amplify the actuation displacement of LIPCA. The angular amplification of the linkage system can provide various flapping angles by adjusting the actuation point of the LIPCA. The device can generate flapping frequency ranging from 5 to 50 Hz depending on weight of the wing and linkages. Flapping tests using different wing mass, area, and aspect ratio were performed to investigate the flapping performance. The test results were described and compared with the estimation. It was found that changes in wing mass, area, and aspect ratio result in significant variation of natural flapping-frequency.
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NAKATA, Toshiyuki, Ryusuke NODA, and Hao LIU. "Visualization of Insect Flapping Flight." Journal of the Visualization Society of Japan 37, no. 144 (2017): 8–13. http://dx.doi.org/10.3154/jvs.37.144_8.
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S., Syam Narayanan, Asad Ahmed R., Jijo Philip Varghese, Gopinath S., Jedidiah Paulraj, and Muthukumar M. "Experimental investigation on lift generation of flapping MAV with insect wings of various species." Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology 92, no. 2 (October 7, 2019): 139–44. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/aeat-04-2019-0076.
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Purpose The purpose of this paper is to experimentally analyze the effect of wing shape of various insects of different species in a flapping micro aerial vehicle (MAV). Design/methodology/approach Six different wings are fabricated for the MAV configuration, which is restricted to the size of 15 cm length and width; all wings have different surface area and constant span length of 6 cm. The force is being measured with the help of a force-sensing resistor (FSR), and the coefficients of lift were calculated and compared. Findings This study shows that the wing “Tipula sp” has better value of lift than other insect wings, except for the negative angle of attacks. The wing “Aeshna multicolor” gives the better values of lift in negative angles of attack. Practical implications This paper lays the foundation for the development of flapping MAVs with the insect wings. This type of wing can be used for spying purpose in the military zone and also can be used to survey remote and dangerous places where humans cannot enter. Originality/value This paper covers all basic insect wing configurations of different species with exact mimics of the veins. As the experimental investigation was carried for different angle of attacks, velocities and flapping frequencies, this paper can be used as reference for future flapping wing MAV developers.
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Lee, Jeongsu, Haecheon Choi, and Ho-Young Kim. "A scaling law for the lift of hovering insects." Journal of Fluid Mechanics 782 (October 9, 2015): 479–90. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/jfm.2015.568.
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Insect hovering is one of the most fascinating acrobatic flight modes in nature, and its aerodynamics has been intensively studied, mainly through computational approaches. While the numerical analyses have revealed detailed vortical structures around flapping wings and resulting forces for specific hovering conditions, theoretical understanding of a simple unified mechanism enabling the insects to be airborne is still incomplete. Here, we construct a scaling law for the lift of hovering insects through relatively simple scaling arguments of the strength of the leading edge vortex and the momentum induced by the vortical structure. Comparison of our theory with the measurement data of 35 species of insects confirms that the scaling law captures the essential physics of lift generation of hovering insects. Our results offer a simple yet powerful guideline for biologists who seek the evolutionary direction of the shape and kinematics of insect wings, and for engineers who design flapping-based micro air vehicles.
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CONN, ANDREW T., STUART C. BURGESS, and SENG LING CHUNG. "THE PARALLEL CRANK-ROCKER FLAPPING MECHANISM: AN INSECT-INSPIRED DESIGN FOR MICRO AIR VEHICLES." International Journal of Humanoid Robotics 04, no. 04 (December 2007): 625–43. http://dx.doi.org/10.1142/s0219843607001199.
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This paper presents a novel micro air vehicle (MAV) design that seeks to reproduce the unsteady aerodynamics of insects in their natural flight. The challenge of developing an MAV capable of hovering and maneuvering through indoor environments has led to bio-inspired flapping propulsion being considered instead of conventional fixed or rotary winged flight. Insects greatly outperform these conventional flight platforms by exploiting several unsteady aerodynamic phenomena. Therefore, reproducing insect aerodynamics by mimicking their complex wing kinematics with a miniature flying robot has significant benefits in terms of flight performance. However, insect wing kinematics are extremely complex and replicating them requires optimal design of the actuation and flapping mechanism system. A novel flapping mechanism based on parallel crank-rockers has been designed that accurately reproduces the wing kinematics employed by insects and also offers control for flight maneuvers. The mechanism has been developed into an experimental prototype with MAV scale wings (75 mm long). High-speed camera footage of the non-airborne prototype showed that its wing kinematics closely matched desired values, but that the wing beat frequency of 5.6 Hz was below the predicted value of 15 Hz. Aerodynamic testing of the prototype in hovering conditions was completed using a load cell and the mean lift force at the maximum power output was measured to be 23.8 mN.
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WHITNEY, J. P., and R. J. WOOD. "Aeromechanics of passive rotation in flapping flight." Journal of Fluid Mechanics 660 (July 27, 2010): 197–220. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s002211201000265x.
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Flying insects and robots that mimic them flap and rotate (or ‘pitch’) their wings with large angular amplitudes. The reciprocating nature of flapping requires rotation of the wing at the end of each stroke. Insects or flapping-wing robots could achieve this by directly exerting moments about the axis of rotation using auxiliary muscles or actuators. However, completely passive rotational dynamics might be preferred for efficiency purposes, or, in the case of a robot, decreased mechanical complexity and reduced system mass. Herein, the detailed equations of motion are derived for wing rotational dynamics, and a blade-element model is used to supply aerodynamic force and moment estimates. Passive-rotation flapping experiments with insect-scale mechanically driven artificial wings are conducted to simultaneously measure aerodynamic forces and three-degree-of-freedom kinematics (flapping, rotation and out-of-plane deviation), allowing a detailed evaluation of the blade-element model and the derived equations of motion. Variations in flapping kinematics, wing-beat frequency, stroke amplitude and torsional compliance are made to test the generality of the model. All experiments showed strong agreement with predicted forces and kinematics, without variation or fitting of model parameters.
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Karásek, Matěj. "Good vibrations for flapping-wing flyers." Science Robotics 5, no. 46 (September 30, 2020): eabe4544. http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/scirobotics.abe4544.
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Ishihara, Daisuke. "Computational Approach for the Fluid-Structure Interaction Design of Insect-Inspired Micro Flapping Wings." Fluids 7, no. 1 (January 6, 2022): 26. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/fluids7010026.
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A flight device for insect-inspired flapping wing nano air vehicles (FWNAVs), which consists of the micro wings, the actuator, and the transmission, can use the fluid-structure interaction (FSI) to create the characteristic motions of the flapping wings. This design will be essential for further miniaturization of FWNAVs, since it will reduce the mechanical and electrical complexities of the flight device. Computational approaches will be necessary for this biomimetic concept because of the complexity of the FSI. Hence, in this study, a computational approach for the FSI design of insect-inspired micro flapping wings is proposed. This approach consists of a direct numerical modeling of the strongly coupled FSI, the dynamic similarity framework, and the design window (DW) search. The present numerical examples demonstrated that the dynamic similarity framework works well to make different two FSI systems with the strong coupling dynamically similar to each other, and this framework works as the guideline for the systematic investigation of the effect of characteristic parameters on the FSI system. Finally, an insect-inspired micro flapping wing with the 2.5-dimensional structure was designed using the proposed approach such that it can create the lift sufficient to support the weight of small insects. The existing area of satisfactory design solutions or the DW increases the fabricability of this wing using micromachining techniques based on the photolithography in the micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) technology. Hence, the proposed approach will contribute to the further miniaturization of FWNAVs.
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Xiao, Shengjie, Kai Hu, Binxiao Huang, Huichao Deng, and Xilun Ding. "A Review of Research on the Mechanical Design of Hoverable Flapping Wing Micro-Air Vehicles." Journal of Bionic Engineering 18, no. 6 (November 2021): 1235–54. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s42235-021-00118-4.
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AbstractMost insects and hummingbirds can generate lift during both upstroke and downstroke with a nearly horizontal flapping stroke plane, and perform precise hovering flight. Further, most birds can utilize tails and muscles in wings to actively control the flight performance, while insects control their flight with muscles based on wing root along with wing’s passive deformation. Based on the above flight principles of birds and insects, Flapping Wing Micro Air Vehicles (FWMAVs) are classified as either bird-inspired or insect-inspired FWMAVs. In this review, the research achievements on mechanisms of insect-inspired, hoverable FWMAVs over the last ten years (2011–2020) are provided. We also provide the definition, function, research status and development prospect of hoverable FWMAVs. Then discuss it from three aspects: bio-inspiration, motor-driving mechanisms and intelligent actuator-driving mechanisms. Following this, research groups involved in insect-inspired, hoverable FWMAV research and their major achievements are summarized and classified in tables. Problems, trends and challenges about the mechanism are compiled and presented. Finally, this paper presents conclusions about research on mechanical structure, and the future is discussed to enable further research interests.
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Tsuyuki, Koji, Seiichi Sudo, and Junji Tani. "Morphology of Insect Wings and Airflow Produced by Flapping Insects." Journal of Intelligent Material Systems and Structures 17, no. 8-9 (May 17, 2006): 743–51. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1045389x06055767.
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Spoorthi Singh, Aravind Karthik Muralidharan, Jayakrishnan Radhakrishnan, Mohammad Zuber, Adi Azriff Basri, Norkhairunnisa Mazlan, Mohd Nizar Hamidon, and Kamarul Arifin Ahmad. "Study of X-Pattern Crank-Activated 4-Bar Fast Return Mechanism for Flapping Actuation in Robo Drones." Journal of Advanced Research in Fluid Mechanics and Thermal Sciences 105, no. 2 (June 1, 2023): 115–28. http://dx.doi.org/10.37934/arfmts.105.2.115128.
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The study of insect-inspired flapping robo drones is exciting and ongoing, but creating realistic artificial flapping robots that can effectively mimic insect flight is difficult due to the transmission mechanism's need for lightweight and minimal connecting components. The objective of this work was to create a system of constructing a flapping superstructure with the fewest feasible links. This is one of the two strokes where the fast return mechanism turns circular energy into a variable angled flapping motion (obtained through simulation results). We have simulated the displacement modifications of the forward and return stroke variation. also conducted a kinematic study of the design processes differences, finding that it is significantly faster than the advance stroke. It was also seen that one of its levers lagged behind the others when flapping because of poor boundary conditions. Modelling the suggested motor-driven flapping actuation system helps verify its structural analysis and determine if it is appropriate for use in micro air vehicle applications.
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Fujikawa, Taro. "Robotics on Insect-like Flapping Wings." Journal of the Robotics Society of Japan 34, no. 1 (2016): 19–23. http://dx.doi.org/10.7210/jrsj.34.19.
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KIKUCHI, Hayato, Toshiyuki NAKATA, and Ryusuke NODA. "Span Efficiency of Insect Flapping Flight." Proceedings of the JSME Conference on Frontiers in Bioengineering 2022.33 (2022): 1F11. http://dx.doi.org/10.1299/jsmebiofro.2022.33.1f11.
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TAKAGI, Kazuto, Tetsuya YANO, Muneo FUTAMURA, Koji TSUYUKI, and Seiichi SUDO. "406 Insect Flapping and Vibration Characteristics of Insect Wings." Proceedings of Autumn Conference of Tohoku Branch 2006.42 (2006): 99–100. http://dx.doi.org/10.1299/jsmetohoku.2006.42.99.
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Sibilski, Krzysztof, and Andrzej Żyluk. "Modeling, Simulation and Control of Microelectromechanical Flying Insect." Solid State Phenomena 198 (March 2013): 206–19. http://dx.doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/ssp.198.206.
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This paper presents modeling, simulation, and control of a flapping wing Micromechanical Flying Insect (MFI) called Entomopter. The overall geometry of this MFI is based on hummingbirds and large insects. This paper presents methods for investigation of MFI aerodynamics, flight dynamics, and control. The simulation results reveal important information regarding the behavior of the system, that could be used in future designs
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Cheng, Bo, and Xinyan Deng. "A Neural Adaptive Controller in Flapping Flight." Journal of Robotics and Mechatronics 24, no. 4 (August 20, 2012): 602–11. http://dx.doi.org/10.20965/jrm.2012.p0602.
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In this paper, we propose a neural adaptive controller for attitude control in a flapping-wing insect model. The model is nonlinear and subjected to periodic force/torque generated by nominal wing kinematics. Two sets of model parameters are obtained from the fruit flyDrosophila melanogasterand the honey beeApis mellifera. Attitude control is achieved by modifying the wing kinematics on a stroke-by-stroke basis. The controller is based on filtered-error with neural network models approximating system nonlinearities. Lyapunov-based stability analysis shows the asymptotic convergence of system outputs. We present simulation results for angular position stabilization and trajectory tracking. Trajectory tracking is illustrated by two cases: saccadic turning and sinusoidal variation in the yaw angle. The proposed controller successfully regulates flight orientation – roll, pitch and yaw angles – by generating desired torque resulting from tuning parameterized wing motion. Results furthermore show similarities between simulated and observed turning from real insects, suggesting some inherent properties in insect flight dynamics and control. The proposed controller has potential applications in future flapping-wing Micro Air Vehicles (MAVs).
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Gong, DuHyun, DaWoon Lee, SangJoon Shin, and SangYong Kim. "String-based flapping mechanism and modularized trailing edge control system for insect-type FWMAV." International Journal of Micro Air Vehicles 11 (January 2019): 175682931984254. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1756829319842547.
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This paper presents the design process and experimental results of a brand new flapping and trailing edge control mechanism for a flapping wing micro air vehicle. The flapping mechanism, whose main components are fabricated from string, is suggested and optimized further by a modified pattern search method. The trailing edge control mechanisms for pitching and rolling moments are designed to be attached onto the present flapping mechanism in a modularized fashion. Prototypes of both mechanisms are fabricated and experimentally tested in order to examine the feasibility of the designs. It is expected that the present flapping mechanism will generate enough lift for the total weight of the vehicle. The present control mechanism is found to be able to supply sufficient control moment.
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Yang, Xu, Xiao Yi Jin, and Xiao Lei Zhou. "Bionic Flapping Wing Flying Robot Flight Mechanism and the Key Technologies." Applied Mechanics and Materials 494-495 (February 2014): 1046–49. http://dx.doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/amm.494-495.1046.
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The flapping wing flying robot is an imitation of a bird or insect like a new type of flying robots, the paper briefly outlines the current domestic and international research in the field of flapping wing flight mechanism of the progress made flapping wing flying robot design. On this basis, the current course of the study were discussed key technical issues, combined with the current research, flapping wing aircraft for the future development prospects.
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Cote, Braden, Samuel Weston, and Mark Jankauski. "Modeling and Analysis of a Simple Flexible Wing—Thorax System in Flapping-Wing Insects." Biomimetics 7, no. 4 (November 21, 2022): 207. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics7040207.
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Small-scale flapping-wing micro air vehicles (FWMAVs) are an emerging robotic technology with many applications in areas including infrastructure monitoring and remote sensing. However, challenges such as inefficient energetics and decreased payload capacity preclude the useful implementation of FWMAVs. Insects serve as inspiration to FWMAV design owing to their energy efficiency, maneuverability, and capacity to hover. Still, the biomechanics of insects remain challenging to model, thereby limiting the translational design insights we can gather from their flight. In particular, it is not well-understood how wing flexibility impacts the energy requirements of flapping flight. In this work, we developed a simple model of an insect drive train consisting of a compliant thorax coupled to a flexible wing flapping with single-degree-of-freedom rotation in a fluid environment. We applied this model to quantify the energy required to actuate a flapping wing system with parameters based off a hawkmoth Manduca sexta. Despite its simplifications, the model predicts thorax displacement, wingtip deflection and peak aerodynamic force in proximity to what has been measured experimentally in flying moths. We found a flapping system with flexible wings requires 20% less energy than a flapping system with rigid wings while maintaining similar aerodynamic performance. Passive wing deformation increases the effective angle of rotation of the flexible wing, thereby reducing the maximum rotation angle at the base of the wing. We investigated the sensitivity of these results to parameter deviations and found that the energetic savings conferred by the flexible wing are robust over a wide range of parameters.
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Meresman, Yonatan, and Gal Ribak. "Elastic wing deformations mitigate flapping asymmetry during manoeuvres in rose chafers (Protaetia cuprea)." Journal of Experimental Biology 223, no. 24 (November 9, 2020): jeb225599. http://dx.doi.org/10.1242/jeb.225599.
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ABSTRACTTo manoeuvre in air, flying animals produce asymmetric flapping between contralateral wings. Unlike the adjustable vertebrate wings, insect wings lack intrinsic musculature, preventing active control over wing shape during flight. However, the wings elastically deform as a result of aerodynamic and inertial forces generated by the flapping motions. How these elastic deformations vary with flapping kinematics and flight performance in free-flying insects is poorly understood. Using high-speed videography, we measured how contralateral wings elastically deform during free-flight manoeuvring in rose chafer beetles (Protaetia cuprea). We found that asymmetric flapping during aerial turns was associated with contralateral differences in chord-wise wing deformations. The highest instantaneous difference in deformation occurred during stroke reversals, resulting from differences in wing rotation timing. Elastic deformation asymmetry was also evident during mid-strokes, where wing compliance increased the angle of attack of both wings, but reduced the asymmetry in the angle of attack between contralateral wings. A biomechanical model revealed that wing compliance can increase the torques generated by each wing, providing higher potential for manoeuvrability, while concomitantly contributing to flight stability by attenuating steering asymmetry. Such stability may be adaptive for insects such as flower chafers that need to perform delicate low-speed landing manoeuvres among vegetation.
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Feng, Yang, Jiang, and Zheng. "Research on Key Techniques of Insect Flapping Onset Control Based on Electrical Stimulation." Sensors 20, no. 1 (December 31, 2019): 239. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/s20010239.
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In this paper, an insect flapping onset control method based on electrical stimulation is proposed. The beetle (Allomyrina dithotomus, Coleoptera) is employed for the research carrier, and it’s left and right longitudinal muscles are electrically stimulated to control the flapping onset behavior. The control principle of insect flapping onset utilizing electrical stimulation is analyzed firstly followed by the movement function of the dorsal longitudinal muscle. Subsequently, a micro-control system, which is composed of a PC controller, coordinator and electronic backpack, is designed to realize the wireless control of beetle movements. Finally, the verification experiment is implemented to verify the effectiveness of dorsal longitudinal muscle stimulation with respect to the beetle flapping onset, whereas the comparative experiment emphasizes on determining optimal simulating parameters. The experimental results demonstrate that when the period, duty ratio, number of and amplitude of pulses stimulation signal are assigned to 5 ms, 20%, 90 and 3.3 V respectively, the beetle flapping onset can be controlled with an average response time of 1.69 s. Simultaneously, the optimization of duty ratio from 20% to 40%, and the number of pulses from 90 to 100, is proved to the best parameter configuration.
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Chen, Si, Le Wang, Shijun Guo, Chunsheng Zhao, and Mingbo Tong. "A Bio-Inspired Flapping Wing Rotor of Variant Frequency Driven by Ultrasonic Motor." Applied Sciences 10, no. 1 (January 6, 2020): 412. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/app10010412.
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By combining the flapping and rotary motion, a bio-inspired flapping wing rotor (FWR) is a unique kinematics of motion. It can produce a significantly greater aerodynamic lift and efficiency than mimicking the insect wings in a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL). To produce the same lift, the FWR’s flapping frequency, twist angle, and self-propelling rotational speed is significantly smaller than the insect-like flapping wings and rotors. Like its opponents, however, the effect of variant flapping frequency (VFF) of a FWR, during a flapping cycle on its aerodynamic characteristics and efficiency, remains to be evaluated. A FWR model is built to carry out experimental work. To be able to vary the flapping frequency rapidly during a stroke, an ultrasonic motor (USM) is used to drive the FWR. Experiment and numerical simulation using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) are performed in a VFF range versus the usual constant flapping frequency (CFF) cases. The measured lifting forces agree very well with the CFD results. Flapping frequency in an up-stroke is smaller than a down-stroke, and the negative lift and inertia forces can be reduced significantly. The average lift of the FWR where the motion in VFF is greater than the CFF, in the same input motor power or equivalent flapping frequency. In other words, the required power for a VFF case to produce a specified lift is less than a CFF case. For this FWR model, the optimal installation angle of the wings for high lift and efficiency is found to be 30° and the Strouhal number of the VFF cases is between 0.3–0.36.
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Engels, Thomas, Henja-Niniane Wehmann, and Fritz-Olaf Lehmann. "Three-dimensional wing structure attenuates aerodynamic efficiency in flapping fly wings." Journal of The Royal Society Interface 17, no. 164 (March 2020): 20190804. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rsif.2019.0804.
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The aerial performance of flying insects ultimately depends on how flapping wings interact with the surrounding air. It has previously been suggested that the wing's three-dimensional camber and corrugation help to stiffen the wing against aerodynamic and inertial loading during flapping motion. Their contribution to aerodynamic force production, however, is under debate. Here, we investigated the potential benefit of three-dimensional wing shape in three different-sized species of flies using models of micro-computed tomography-scanned natural wings and models in which we removed either the wing's camber, corrugation, or both properties. Forces and aerodynamic power requirements during root flapping were derived from three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics modelling. Our data show that three-dimensional camber has no benefit for lift production and attenuates Rankine–Froude flight efficiency by up to approximately 12% compared to a flat wing. Moreover, we did not find evidence for lift-enhancing trapped vortices in corrugation valleys at Reynolds numbers between 137 and 1623. We found, however, that in all tested insect species, aerodynamic pressure distribution during flapping is closely aligned to the wing's venation pattern. Altogether, our study strongly supports the assumption that the wing's three-dimensional structure provides mechanical support against external forces rather than improving lift or saving energetic costs associated with active wing flapping.
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Phillips, N., and K. Knowles. "Formation of vortices and spanwise flow on an insect-like flapping wing throughout a flapping half cycle." Aeronautical Journal 117, no. 1191 (May 2013): 471–90. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0001924000008137.
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AbstractThis paper presents an experimental investigation of the evolution of the leading-edge vortex and spanwise flow generated by an insect-like flapping-wing at a Reynolds number relevant to flapping-wing micro air vehicles (FMAVs) (Re = ~15,000). Experiments were accomplished with a first-of-its-kind flapping-wing apparatus. Dense pseudo-volumetric particle image velocimetry (PIV) measurements from 18% – 117% span were taken at 12 azimuthal positions throughout a flapping half cycle. Results revealed the formation of a primary leading-edge vortex (LEV) which saw an increase in size and spanwise flow (towards the tip) through its core as the wing swept from rest to the mid-stroke position where signs of vortex breakdown were observed. Beyond mid-stroke, spanwise flow decreased and the tip vortex grew in size and exhibited a reversal in its axial direction. At the end of the flapping half cycle, the primary LEV was still present over the wing surface, suggesting that the LEV remains attached to the wing throughout the entire flapping half cycle.
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Bluman, James E., Madhu K. Sridhar, and Chang-kwon Kang. "Chordwise wing flexibility may passively stabilize hovering insects." Journal of The Royal Society Interface 15, no. 147 (October 2018): 20180409. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rsif.2018.0409.
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Insect wings are flexible, and the dynamically deforming wing shape influences the resulting aerodynamics and power consumption. However, the influence of wing flexibility on the flight dynamics of insects is unknown. Most stability studies in the literature consider rigid wings and conclude that the hover equilibrium condition is unstable. The rigid wings possess an unstable oscillatory mode mainly due to their pitch sensitivity to horizontal velocity perturbations. Here, we show that a flapping wing flyer with flexible wings exhibits stable hover equilibria. The free-flight insect flight dynamics are simulated at the fruit fly scale in the longitudinal plane. The chordwise wing flexibility is modelled as a linear beam. The two-dimensional Navier–Stokes equations are solved in a tight fluid–structure integration scheme. For a range of wing flexibilities similar to live insects, all eigenvalues of the system matrix about the hover equilibrium have negative real parts. Flexible wings appear to stabilize the unstable mode by passively deforming their wing shape in the presence of perturbations, generating significantly more horizontal velocity damping and pitch rate damping. These results suggest that insects may passively stabilize their hover flight via wing flexibility, which can inform designs of synthetic flapping wing robots.
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Moses, Kenneth, Mark Willis, and Roger Quinn. "Biomimicry of the Hawk Moth, Manduca sexta (L.), Produces an Improved Flapping-Wing Mechanism." Biomimetics 5, no. 2 (June 4, 2020): 25. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics5020025.
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Flapping-wing micro air vehicles (FWMAVs) that mimic the flight capabilities of insects have been sought for decades. Core to the vehicle’s flight capabilities is the mechanism that drives the wings to produce thrust and lift. This article describes a newly designed flapping-wing mechanism (FWM) inspired by the North American hawk moth, Manduca sexta. Moreover, the hardware, software, and experimental testing methods developed to measure the efficiency of insect-scale flapping-wing systems (i.e., the lift produced per unit of input power) are detailed. The new FWM weighs 1.2 grams without an actuator and wings attached, and its maximum dimensions are 21 × 24 × 11 mm. This FWM requires 402 mW of power to operate, amounting to a 48% power reduction when compared to a previous version. In addition, it generates 1.3 gram-force of lift at a flapping frequency of 21.6 Hz. Results show progress, but they have not yet met the power efficiency of the naturally occurring Manduca sexta. Plans to improve the technique for measuring efficiency are discussed as well as strategies to more closely mimic the efficiency of the Manduca sexta-inspired FWM.
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Zhu, Jianyang, and Bin Lei. "Effect of Wing-Wing Interaction on the Propulsive Performance of Two Flapping Wings at Biplane Configuration." Applied Bionics and Biomechanics 2018 (September 20, 2018): 1–12. http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2018/8901067.
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The biplane counter-flapping wing is a special type of wing flapping which is inspired from the fish and insect in nature. The propulsive performance is one of the most important considerations for this kind of flapping wing. This paper is aimed at providing a systematic synthesis on the propulsive characteristics of two flapping wings at biplane configuration based on the numerical analysis approach. Firstly, parameters of this special flapping wing are presented. Secondly, the numerical method for simultaneously solving the incompressible flow and counter-flapping motion of the wing is illustrated, and the method is then validated. Thirdly, the effects of phase angle and mean wing spacing on the propulsive characteristics of the biplane counter-flapping wing are analyzed. Finally, the quantification effects of the phase angle and mean wing spacing on the propulsive characteristics of the biplane counter-flapping wing can be obtained. The analysis results in this study will provide useful guidelines to design an effectively propulsive system applying for the flapping micro air or underwater vehicle.
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Phan, Hoang Vu, Quang-Tri Truong, and Hoon-Cheol Park. "Implementation of initial passive stability in insect-mimicking flapping-wing micro air vehicle." International Journal of Intelligent Unmanned Systems 3, no. 1 (February 9, 2015): 18–38. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/ijius-12-2014-0010.
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Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the uncontrolled vertical takeoff of an insect-mimicking flapping-wing micro air vehicle (FW-MAV) of 12.5 cm wing span with a body weight of 7.36 g after installing batteries and power control. Design/methodology/approach – The forces were measured using a load cell and estimated by the unsteady blade element theory (UBET), which is based on full three-dimensional wing kinematics. In addition, the mean aerodynamic force center (AC) was determined based on the UBET calculations using the measured wing kinematics. Findings – The wing flapping frequency can reach to 43 Hz at the flapping angle of 150°. By flapping wings at a frequency of 34 Hz, the FW-MAV can produce enough thrust to over its own weight. For this condition, the difference between the estimated and average measured vertical forces was about 7.3 percent with respect to the estimated force. All parts for the FW-MAV were integrated such that the distance between the mean AC and the center of gravity is close to zero. In this manner, pitching moment generation was prevented to facilitate stable vertical takeoff. An uncontrolled takeoff test successfully demonstrated that the FW-MAV possesses initial pitching stability for takeoff. Originality/value – This work has successfully demonstrated an insect-mimicking flapping-wing MAV that can stably takeoff with initial stability.
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Sum Wu, Kit, Jerome Nowak, and Kenneth S. Breuer. "Scaling of the performance of insect-inspired passive-pitching flapping wings." Journal of The Royal Society Interface 16, no. 161 (December 2019): 20190609. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rsif.2019.0609.
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Flapping flight using passive pitch regulation is a commonly used mode of thrust and lift generation in insects and has been widely emulated in flying vehicles because it allows for simple implementation of the complex kinematics associated with flapping wing systems. Although robotic flight employing passive pitching to regulate angle of attack has been previously demonstrated, there does not exist a comprehensive understanding of the effectiveness of this mode of aerodynamic force generation, nor a method to accurately predict its performance over a range of relevant scales. Here, we present such scaling laws, incorporating aerodynamic, inertial and structural elements of the flapping-wing system, validating the theoretical considerations using a mechanical model which is tested for a linear elastic hinge and near-sinusoidal stroke kinematics over a range of scales, hinge stiffnesses and flapping frequencies. We find that suitably defined dimensionless parameters, including the Reynolds number, Re , the Cauchy number, Ch , and a newly defined ‘inertial-elastic’ number, IE, can reliably predict the kinematic and aerodynamic performance of the system. Our results also reveal a consistent dependency of pitching kinematics on these dimensionless parameters, providing a connection between lift coefficient and kinematic features such as angle of attack and wing rotation.
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Liu, Lan, and Zhao Xia He. "Simulation and Experiment for Rigid and Flexible Wings of Flapping-Wings Microrobots." Advanced Materials Research 97-101 (March 2010): 4513–16. http://dx.doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/amr.97-101.4513.
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In this paper, an insect-based flapping-wing flying microrobot was built which can successfully fly in the sky. The unsteady aerodynamics associated with this microrobot was studied by using the method of computational fluid dynamics (CFD). On the basis of numerical simulation, the Fluid-Structure coupling mechanics for flexible flapping-wings were studied and discussed. According to the practically developed flapping-wing microrobot, a 2-D simulation model for flexible flapping-wings was established. Fluid-Structure coupling deformation and the effects of this model on the aero dynamic performance were analyzed, which have offered a theoretical basis for design of the aircraft with flexible flapping-wing. In order to verify the results of numerical simulation, aerodynamic performance tests have been conducted for the rigid and flexible flapping-wings in a low turbulence and low Reynolds number wind tunnel.
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Wilkins, P. C., and K. Knowles. "The leading-edge vortex and aerodynamics of insect-based flapping-wing micro air vehicles." Aeronautical Journal 113, no. 1142 (April 2009): 253–62. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s000192400000292x.
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AbstractThe aerodynamics of insect-like flapping are dominated by the production of a large, stable, and lift-enhancing leading-edge vortex (LEV) above the wing. In this paper the phenomenology behind the LEV is explored, the reasons for its stability are investigated, and the effects on the LEV of changing Reynolds number or angle-of-attack are studied. A predominantly-computational method has been used, validated against both existing and new experimental data. It is concluded that the LEV is stable over the entire range of Reynolds numbers investigated here and that changes in angle-of-attack do not affect the LEV’s stability. The primary motivation of the current work is to ascertain whether insect-like flapping can be successfully ‘scaled up’ to produce a flapping-wing micro air vehicle (FMAV) and the results presented here suggest that this should be the case.
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Wang, Chenyang, Weiping Zhang, Junqi Hu, Jiaxin Zhao, and Yang Zou. "A Modified Quasisteady Aerodynamic Model for a Sub-100 mg Insect-Inspired Flapping-Wing Robot." Applied Bionics and Biomechanics 2020 (December 22, 2020): 1–12. http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2020/8850036.
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This study proposes a modified quasisteady aerodynamic model for the sub-100-milligram insect-inspired flapping-wing robot presented by the authors in a previous paper. The model, which is based on blade-element theory, considers the aerodynamic mechanisms of circulation, dissipation, and added-mass, as well as the inertial effect. The aerodynamic force and moment acting on the wing are calculated based on the two-degree-of-freedom (2-DOF) wing kinematics of flapping and rotating. In order to validate the model, we used a binocular high-speed photography system and a customized lift measurement system to perform simultaneous measurements of the wing kinematics and the lift of the robot under different input voltages. The results of these measurements were all in close agreement with the estimates generated by the proposed model. In addition, based on the model, this study analyzes the 2-DOF flapping-wing dynamics of the robot and provides an estimate of the passive rotation—the main factor in generating lift—from the measured flapping kinematics. The analysis also reveals that the calculated rotating kinematics of the wing under different input voltages accord well with the measured rotating kinematics. We expect that the model presented here will be useful in developing a control strategy for our sub-100 mg insect-inspired flapping-wing robot.
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Hsu, Meng Hui, Hsueh Yu Chen, Ting Sheng Weng, and Feng Chi Liu. "Topology Structure Design of 12 Flapping-Wing Mechanisms." Advanced Materials Research 328-330 (September 2011): 887–91. http://dx.doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/amr.328-330.887.
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People used the Micro Air Vehicles to patrol the military activity or explore the danger region.The important parts of Micro Air Vehicles are the flapping-wing mechanisms those can simulate the wing-motion of flying being.Hence this work is to present a systematic approach for designing new flapping-wing mechanisms with one degree of freedom that can simulate the wing-motion of long ear bats and insects.First,we analyze the topological structure and motion characteristics of existed flapping mechanisms.Then, the design criteria of the topological structure are described.Based on the design criteria of topology, the methodology of mechanism design is applied to synthesize new flapping-wing mechanisms. Finally, this research of the provide method can obtain 12 new flapping -wing mechanisms and one prototype of a flying insect mechanism.
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Ellington, C. P. "The novel aerodynamics of insect flight: applications to micro-air vehicles." Journal of Experimental Biology 202, no. 23 (December 1, 1999): 3439–48. http://dx.doi.org/10.1242/jeb.202.23.3439.
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The wing motion in free flight has been described for insects ranging from 1 to 100 mm in wingspan. To support the body weight, the wings typically produce 2–3 times more lift than can be accounted for by conventional aerodynamics. Some insects use the fling mechanism: the wings are clapped together and then flung open before the start of the downstroke, creating a lift-enhancing vortex around each wing. Most insects, however, rely on a leading-edge vortex (LEV) created by dynamic stall during flapping; a strong spanwise flow is also generated by the pressure gradients on the flapping wing, causing the LEV to spiral out to the wingtip. Technical applications of the fling are limited by the mechanical damage that accompanies repeated clapping of the wings, but the spiral LEV can be used to augment the lift production of propellers, rotors and micro-air vehicles (MAVs). Design characteristics of insect-based flying machines are presented, along with estimates of the mass supported, the mechanical power requirement and maximum flight speeds over a wide range of sizes and frequencies. To support a given mass, larger machines need less power, but smaller ones operating at higher frequencies will reach faster speeds.
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de Croon, Guido C. H. E., Julien J. G. Dupeyroux, Christophe De Wagter, Abhishek Chatterjee, Diana A. Olejnik, and Franck Ruffier. "Accommodating unobservability to control flight attitude with optic flow." Nature 610, no. 7932 (October 19, 2022): 485–90. http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41586-022-05182-2.
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AbstractAttitude control is an essential flight capability. Whereas flying robots commonly rely on accelerometers1 for estimating attitude, flying insects lack an unambiguous sense of gravity2,3. Despite the established role of several sense organs in attitude stabilization3–5, the dependence of flying insects on an internal gravity direction estimate remains unclear. Here we show how attitude can be extracted from optic flow when combined with a motion model that relates attitude to acceleration direction. Although there are conditions such as hover in which the attitude is unobservable, we prove that the ensuing control system is still stable, continuously moving into and out of these conditions. Flying robot experiments confirm that accommodating unobservability in this manner leads to stable, but slightly oscillatory, attitude control. Moreover, experiments with a bio-inspired flapping-wing robot show that residual, high-frequency attitude oscillations from flapping motion improve observability. The presented approach holds a promise for robotics, with accelerometer-less autopilots paving the road for insect-scale autonomous flying robots6. Finally, it forms a hypothesis on insect attitude estimation and control, with the potential to provide further insight into known biological phenomena5,7,8 and to generate new predictions such as reduced head and body attitude variance at higher flight speeds9.
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Lang, Xinyu, Bifeng Song, Wenqing Yang, and Xiaojun Yang. "Effect of Wing Membrane Material on the Aerodynamic Performance of Flexible Flapping Wing." Applied Sciences 12, no. 9 (April 29, 2022): 4501. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/app12094501.
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Flexible deformation of the insect wing has been proven to be beneficial to lift generation and power consumption. There is great potential for shared research between natural insects and bio-inspired Flapping wing Micro Aerial Vehicles (FWMAVs) for performance enhancement. However, the aerodynamic characteristics and deformation process of the flexible flapping wing, especially influenced by wing membrane material, are still lacking in-depth understanding. In this study, the flexible flapping wings with different membrane materials have been experimentally investigated. Power input and lift force were measured to evaluate the influence of membrane material. The rotation angles at different wing sections were extracted to analyze the deformation process. It was found that wings with higher elastic modulus membrane could generate more lift but at the cost of more power. A lower elastic modulus means the wing is more flexible and shows an advantage in power loading. Twisting deformation is more obvious for the wing with higher flexibility. Additionally, flexibility is also beneficial to attenuate the rotation angle fluctuation, which in turn enhances the aerodynamic efficiency. The research in this paper is helpful to further understand the aerodynamic characteristics of flexible flapping wing and to design bio-inspired FWMAVs with higher performance.
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Phillips, N., and K. Knowles. "Effect of flapping kinematics on the mean lift of an insect-like flapping wing." Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part G: Journal of Aerospace Engineering 225, no. 7 (July 2011): 723–36. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0954410011401705.
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Meresman, Yonatan, and Gal Ribak. "Allometry of wing twist and camber in a flower chafer during free flight: How do wing deformations scale with body size?" Royal Society Open Science 4, no. 10 (October 2017): 171152. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rsos.171152.
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Intraspecific variation in adult body mass can be particularly high in some insect species, mandating adjustment of the wing's structural properties to support the weight of the larger body mass in air. Insect wings elastically deform during flapping, dynamically changing the twist and camber of the relatively thin and flat aerofoil. We examined how wing deformations during free flight scale with body mass within a species of rose chafers (Coleoptera: Protaetia cuprea ) in which individuals varied more than threefold in body mass (0.38–1.29 g). Beetles taking off voluntarily were filmed using three high-speed cameras and the instantaneous deformation of their wings during the flapping cycle was analysed. Flapping frequency decreased in larger beetles but, otherwise, flapping kinematics remained similar in both small and large beetles. Deflection of the wing chord-wise varied along the span, with average deflections at the proximal trailing edge higher by 0.2 and 0.197 wing lengths compared to the distal trailing edge in the downstroke and the upstroke, respectively. These deflections scaled with wing chord to the power of 1.0, implying a constant twist and camber despite the variations in wing and body size. This suggests that the allometric growth in wing size includes adjustment of the flexural stiffness of the wing structure to preserve wing twist and camber during flapping.