Papers by Keyword: Insect Flight

Abstract: This paper describes latest results obtained on modeling, simulation and controller design of an insect-like Flapping Wing Micro Air Vehicle (FWMAV). Because of the highly nonlinear and time varying nature of insect flight and the inability to find an equilibrium point, linearization of the model without compromising the accuracy is not possible. Therefore, to address the problem of designing a controller capable of stabilizing and controlling the FWMAV around a hovering point, a metaheuristic optimization approach is proposed, based on the time averaging theorem. The results show that a controller, designed using the proposed method, is capable of stabilizing the FWMAV effectively around its hovering point.

Abstract: We have studied flow control in a two-dimensional flapping flight model for insects. The insect's center-of-mass motion can move in both horizontal and vertical directions according to the hydrodynamic force generated by flapping. Under steady flapping motion, the model converges to steady flight states depending on initial conditions. Further, we show that a short-time wing stop can control the final steady flight states. The model's flight finally converges to a final state by way of another quasi-steady state, which is not observed as a (stable) steady flight.

Abstract: There is a force peak at the beginning of each stroke during the insect flight, this force peak contributes a lot to the total aerodynamic force. To build a man made insect inspired man-made micro aero vehicle, this force need to be considered in the aero force model, and this model should as simple as possible in order to be used in feedback real-time control. Here we presented a simplified model to take the medium added mass effect of the wing into account. Simulated results show a high force peak at the beginning of each stroke and are quite similar to the measured forces on the physical wing model which were carried out by Dickinson et.al.

Abstract: Flying robots with flapping wings are preferred over conventionally fixed or rotational wings in terms of hovering capability for a simple mechanical configuration. Until recently, available actuators for such a robot are limited to (1) a conventional motor with four-bar linkage mechanism or (2) a piezo electric actuator, but none of them could provide enough lift because of low flapping frequency, small stroke angles, and/or frequent mechanical failure. A new actuator capable of generating large stroke angles with high frequency is developed. It consists of an out-runner brushless motor with a modified motor driver attached to a torsion spring. The wing is attached directly on the cap of the motor. A prototype is built and preliminary thrust force measurements are performed. Properties of wing materials suitable for powerful and robust actuators will be discussed. The actuator employed in the present study utilizes resonance oscillation, which leads to high energy efficiency. Further study of wing shape and directional stiffness is needed for generating higher lift capability.

Abstract: 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.