Flapping-Wing Micro Air Vehicle (FWMAV)

Background:

In the last century, humans have deconstructed and reconstructed the principle of flight. From these principles emerged numerous classes of aerial vehicles, ranging from airplanes to helicopters to gliders. As far as advancements have come, man-made flying machines are still outperformed by the agility, maneuverability, and stability of flying birds and insects. These versatile flyers are the inspiration for a new class of bio-inspired flight. In recent years, advancements in understanding of flapping wing flight has enabled new innovation in this field. Through these technological advancements, the Flapping Wing Micro Air Vehicle Project aims to explore the advantages of flapping wing flight and recreate the stability, agility, and maneuverability observed in nature.

Goal and Objectives:

The project aims to study the lift generation and stabilization techniques employed by hovering birds and insects, and apply these techniques in a new and innovative way. Through advanced flow analysis, mechanical optimization, and a functional proof of concept, FWMAV Project aims to explore the advantages of flapping-wing flight.

Innovation:

FWMAV Project has completed construction and experimental testing of a 'Quadflapper' UAV. This flying machine replaces the four traditional propellers of a quadcopter with sets of flapping wings. Experimental comparison testing between similar Quadflapper and Quadcopter UAV's: https://doi.org/10.2514/6.2019-1048

Additionaly, design and construction of an active pitching mechanism could improve upon the orginal mechanism's lift generation, efficiency, and stability. The mechanism sub-team of the FWMAV Project is in the process of manufacturing an active pitching mechanism.

The Bigger Picture:

Through our research, we aim to open the door to further research opportunities and demonstrate a potential for widespread application of flapping-wing flying machines.