Variable Speed Flapping Wing Micro Air Vehicle using a Continuous Variable Transmission Design

Flapping wing micro air vehicles (FWMAV) have very unique flight mechanics in two-wing orientation. Many challenges arise with two wing configuration: lift production, design construction, and control systems. Control surfaces used in fixed wings can be used but at low Reynolds numbers they become less effective. In order to truly mimic insects with two wings, control mechanisms must be developed. Since MAVs are designed to navigate through confined spaces they need to have many degrees of freedom in motion. One way is to use a continuous variable transmission (CVT) mechanism, by integrating its infinite gear ratios to change the flapping frequency of each wing independently it will be able to generate a roll maneuver. In previous work, two motor designs were used; by using a CVT design an additional motor weight can be neglected. The work completed was the development of a cone CVT design for MAV use that could produce variable frequency in each wing. Testing and analysis of the prototype model shows the design as possible control method in MAVs.