Flapping Wing Micro Aerial Vehicle

Abstract

Micro-UAVs are unmanned aerial vehicles which are less than 100cm and are guided using remote and autonomously using sensors. We are working on a micro-UAV which involves a flapping mechanism i.e., it will flap its wings in order to generate lift. We selected “Barn Owl” as our bird to mimic. It has relatively large wings with an elliptical shape, having a large surface area relative to weight, thus, low wing loading. This helps it fly buoyantly and effortlessly. The overall length and width of the bird will be the same as that of an owl. The airfoil used is of Onera, OAF095. The weight of the bird is kept under 500g. The bird’s flapping mechanism consists of two wings which are synchronized using a linear gear mechanism. The flapping mechanism is working on a single crank double rocker mechanism. A total of three motors are used, one is a brushless DC motor for the flapping of the bird and two servo motors to control the overall flight movement of the bird. The body of the bird is 3D printed while the wings are made up of carbon fiber rods. A camera is also installed in this bird to get visual input from a remotely controlled camera. The flapping-wing vehicles promise key potential advantages of high thrust, agility, and maneuverability.