Mathematical modelling for compliance-assisted artificial muscle based ornithopter

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to discuss the mathematical modelling of a compliance-assisted flapping mechanism and morphable structures for an UAV.

Design/methodology/approach

A compliance-assisted flapping wing was designed and modelled mathematically, and signals for the corresponding curves were calculated. The actual wing tip trace of a hummingbird was taken, and variables a, b, h and k were calculated from the image. This data was given to the mathematical model for plotting the graph, and the curve was compared with the input curve. The wing frame and mechanism for control surfaces using morphing is modelled along with single pivoted spine for centre of gravity augmentation and flight orientation control.

Findings

The model efficiently approximates the 2D path of the wing using line segments using the muscle and compliance mechanism.

Practical implications

Using a compliance-assisted flapping mechanism offers practical advantages. It allows us to synchronize the flapping frequency with the input signal frequency, ensuring efficient operation. Additionally, the authors can enhance the torque output by using multiple muscle strands, resulting in a substantial increase in the system’s torque-to-weight ratio. This approach proves to be more favourable when compared to conventional methods involving motors or servos, ultimately offering a more efficient and robust solution for practical application.

Social implications

This model focuses on creating a flexible and tunable mechanism that can at least trace four types of wing traces from the same design, for shifting from one mode of flight to another.

Originality/value

Conventional ornithopter flapping mechanisms are gear or servo driven and cannot trace a wing tip, but some can trace complicated curves, but only one at a time. This model can trace multiple curves using the same hardware, allowing the user to program the curve based on their needs or bird. The authors may vary the shape of the wing tip trace to switch between forward flight, hovering, backward flying, etc., which is not conceivable with any traditional flapping mechanism.

Citation

S., S.N., Pachamuthu, R., Biju, A.T. and Madupu, S. (2024), "Mathematical modelling for compliance-assisted artificial muscle based ornithopter", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 96 No. 4, pp. 604-620. https://doi.org/10.1108/AEAT-07-2023-0180