Smart flapping wing using Macro-Fiber Composite actuators

In the present study, we have developed a smart flapping wing with a MFC (macro-fiber composites) actuator. To mimic the flying mechanisms of nature’s flyers such as birds or insects, the aerodynamic characteristics related to the birds and ornithopters are investigated. To measure the aerodynamic forces of flapping devices, a test stand consisting of two loadcells is manufactured, and the dynamic tests are performed for an onithopter. The smart flapping wing is designed and manufactured using composite materials and MFC actuators. The camber of the wing can be changed by using the surface actuators to enhance the aerodynamic performance of the wing. Finally, aerodynamic tests are performed in a subsonic wind tunnel to evaluate the dynamic characteristics of the smart flapping wing. Experimental results show that unsteady flow effects are increased with low velocity in high flapping frequency regions, and that the deformation of the wing surface generated by the MFC is enough to control the lift and thrust. The lift generated by the smart flapping wing can be increased by 20% when the MFC is actuated.