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Bat-inspired integrally actuated membrane wings with leading-edge sensing
Stefano Buoso1, Benjamin T Dickinson, Rafael Palacios
1Institute of Physiology, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland.
Bioinspiration & Biomimetics
|December 29, 2017
Summary
This study demonstrates a bioinspired membrane wing that uses dielectric elastomers and hair sensors for robust flight. Feedforward control significantly reduces lift oscillations caused by atmospheric disturbances.
Area of Science:
- Bio-inspired engineering
- Aerospace engineering
- Robotics
Background:
- Bat wings exhibit sophisticated aerodynamic sensing and actuation for stable flight.
- Mimicking these biological mechanisms is key to developing robust aerial robots.
- Existing robotic wings often lack integrated sensing and adaptive tension control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To numerically investigate the closed-loop performance of a 2D actuated membrane wing.
- To integrate bio-inspired features like variable membrane tension and airflow sensing.
- To evaluate the wing's ability to maintain stable flight under atmospheric disturbances.
Main Methods:
- Developed a coupled aero-electromechanical model for simulation.
- Implemented variable membrane tension using dielectric elastomers.
- Incorporated bio-inspired hair-like sensors for leading-edge airflow detection.
- Compared feedforward (disturbance measurement) and feedback (reactive) control strategies.
Main Results:
- The membrane wing configuration successfully tracked prescribed lift coefficient signals.
- The system demonstrated robustness against atmospheric gust disturbances.
- Feedforward control using hair sensor data significantly reduced lift coefficient oscillations compared to feedback control.
Conclusions:
- The bio-inspired actuated membrane wing shows promise for robust outdoor flight.
- Integrated sensing and adaptive tension control are crucial for stability in turbulent conditions.
- Feedforward control strategies based on direct disturbance measurement offer superior performance.
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