A Review of Research on the Mechanical Design of Hoverable Flapping Wing Micro-Air Vehicles

Abstract Most insects and hummingbirds can generate lift during both upstroke downstroke with a nearly horizontal flapping stroke plane, perform precise hovering flight. Further, most birds utilize tails muscles in wings to actively control the flight performance, while their based on wing root along wing’s passive deformation. Based above principles of insects, Flapping Wing Micro Air Vehicles (FWMAVs) are classified as either bird-inspired or insect-inspired FWMAVs. In this review, research achievements mechanisms insect-inspired, hoverable FWMAVs over last ten years (2011–2020) provided. We also provide definition, function, status development prospect Then discuss it from three aspects: bio-inspiration, motor-driving intelligent actuator-driving mechanisms. Following this, groups involved FWMAV major summarized tables. Problems, trends challenges about mechanism compiled presented. Finally, paper presents conclusions mechanical structure, future is discussed enable further interests.