Flapping at resonance: Realization of an electroactive elastic thorax

Abstract

Insect-inspired flapping wing micro air vehicles (MAV) have attracted considerable interest due to their potential for agile flight in complex environments. Resonant excitation of the wing flapping mechanism in insects is highly advantageous as it amplifies the flapping amplitude and reduces the inertial power demand. Dielectric elastomer actuators (DEA) produce large actuation strain and their inherent elasticity is ideal for resonant operation. In this work we present a double cone DEA design and characterize its resonant frequency and phase shift to analyze its mechanical power output as a DEA-mass oscillator. Then an artificial thorax driven by this elastic actuator is demonstrated, this thorax design is able to provide a peak flapping amplitude of 63° at a frequency of 18 Hz.