Development of a Dragonfly-Inspired High Aerodynamic Force Flapping-Wing Mechanism Using Asymmetric Wing Flapping Motion.

Abstract

Bionic micro air vehicles are currently being popularized for military as well as civilian use and dragonflies display a wealth of skill in their remarkable flight capabilities. This study designs an asymmetric motion flapping-wing mechanism inspired by the dragonfly, using a single actuator to achieve the coupling of stroke and pitch motion. This study simulates the motion of the dragonfly's wings using the designed mechanism and experimentally validates the motion laws and aerodynamic characteristics of the mechanism. The analysis focuses on the asymmetry in the wing's stroke and pitch motion and their aerodynamic implications. The flapping-wing mechanism accurately replicates the wing motion of a real dragonfly in flight, and the maximum lift-to-weight ratio can reach up to 230.2%, demonstrating significant aerodynamic benefits. This mechanism provides valuable guidance for the structural design and kinematic control of future flapping-wing vehicles.