Modification of a Four-Bar Linkage System for a Higher Optimal Flapping Frequency

• Published in: Journal of intelligent material systems and structures Vol. 22; no. 1; pp. 59 - 66
• Main Authors: Truong, Q.T., Nguyen, Q.V., Park, H.C., Byun, D.Y., Goo, N.S.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: London, England SAGE Publications 01-01-2011; Sage Publications
• Subjects: Actuators; Applied sciences; Drives; Dynamic response; Dynamical systems; Dynamics; Exact sciences and technology; Flapping; General equipment and techniques; Instruments, apparatus, components and techniques common to several branches of physics and astronomy; Linkage mechanisms, cams; Linkages; Mechanical engineering. Machine design; Optimization; Physics; Precision engineering, watch making; Transducers; Weight reduction; LIPCA; insect flight; flapping wing; four-bar linkage; Dynamic response; Wing; Composite transducer; Vibration; Insecta; Flight; Experimental study; Piezoelectric ceramics; Composite material; Dynamic test; Wing beat; Four bar mechanism; Arthropoda; Linkage mechanism; Piezoelectric actuators; Piezoelectricity; Invertebrata; Electromechanical properties
• ISSN: 1045-389X; 1530-8138
• DOI: 10.1177/1045389X10392611

The goal of this work is to increase the optimal flapping frequency, at which the flapper produces maximum vertical force, of a previously developed flapper actuated by a lightweight piezocomposite actuator (LIPCA). We tested the dynamic response of the LIPCA and conducted a parametric study of a four-bar linkage system. An appropriate combination of linkage lengths can provide a better moment transmission and enhance the optimal flapping frequency. The newly designed flapper was tested with five different flapping frequencies. The experimental results confirm that the optimal flapping frequency of the modified flapper is about 17 Hz, and the flapping angle is 92°. The results show 70% increase in the optimal flapping frequency; however, only 8% decrease in the flapping angle compared with the corresponding values of the previous flapper. The highest vertical force produced by the newly designed flapper is 3.6 g at the optimal flapping frequency.