Toward a Dielectric Elastomer Resonator Driven Flapping Wing Micro Air Vehicle.

Area of Science:

• Robotics
• Materials Science
• Aerospace Engineering

Background:

• Insect-inspired flapping wing micro air vehicles (MAVs) offer high agility.
• Resonant frequency actuation amplifies flapping amplitude and reduces power demand.
• Soft actuators like dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) are suitable for resonant actuation due to large strain and elasticity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a double cone DEA configuration for MAVs.
• To develop a mathematical model for DEA quasi-static and dynamic performance.
• To compare the high-frequency performance of silicone and VHB polyacrylate elastomers.

Main Methods:

• Developed a mathematical model for the double cone DEA.
• Experimentally analyzed DEA mechanical power output as a DEA-mass oscillator.
• Tested silicone elastomer and VHB polyacrylate tape for high-frequency performance.

Main Results:

• Characterized quasi-static and dynamic performance of the double cone DEA.
• Compared high-frequency performance of silicone and VHB polyacrylate elastomers.
• Demonstrated a flapping wing mechanism actuated by the DEA, achieving 63° peak amplitude at 18 Hz.

Conclusions:

• The double cone DEA is a promising candidate for resonant actuation in flapping wing MAVs.
• The developed mathematical model aids in characterizing DEA performance.
• The experimental results validate the potential of DEAs for agile MAV flight.