A study of mechanical flapping-wing flight

Abstract

Abstract The feasibility of mechanical flapping-wing flight has been studied by analyses and experiments. The key results from this work include the development of an efficient wing with unique features for twisting and lift balance, as well as a lightweight and reliable drive mechanism. These were incorporated into a radio-controlled, engine-powered, flapping-wing aeroplane (ornithopter), whose flight tests have been the proof-of-concept focus of this research. In September 1991, this aircraft achieved successful sustained flights, demonstrating the practicability of this particular solution for mechanical flapping-wing flight.