Design and Optimization of a Biologically Inspired Flapping Mechanism for Flapping Wing Micro Air Vehicles

In this paper, we investigate design and performance of a flapping mechanism which generates flapping motion through resonant excitation similar to flight apparatus of insects. The desired flapping motion is based on optimum aerodynamic efficiency. The mechanism is driven by a conventional motor and gearbox. The rotary motion is converted into oscillatory excitation through a four-bar linkage. This study explores the optimal design parameters of this mechanism for peak performance.