The field of flying robotics has long drawn inspiration from the wing dynamics of various flying animal species, such as birds, bats, and insects. While birds and bats primarily use their pectoral and wing muscles to flap their wings, the processes behind the wing movements of insects, particularly beetles, have remained a mystery. A recent study conducted by researchers at Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) and Konkuk University delved into the unique wing deployment and retraction mechanisms of rhinoceros beetles. The insights gained from this study were then translated into the development of a new flapping microrobot that mimics the passive wing deployment observed in beetles.
Insects like rhinoceros beetles have hindwings that resemble foldable origami structures, allowing them to be neatly folded under their elytra while at rest and passively deployed when in flight. Previous attempts to replicate these dynamics in robots focused on origami-like structures without considering the movements at the base of the hindwings. Lead author Hoang-Vu Phan’s curiosity led him to uncover the passive nature of beetle wing deployment, which does not rely on active thoracic muscles like those of birds and bats.
The researchers utilized their findings to design a flapping microrobot that weighs 18 grams and incorporates a passive wing deployment mechanism inspired by beetles. By implementing elastic tendons at the armpits, the robot can effortlessly close its wings when at rest and passively deploy them during takeoff and flight. This innovative approach sets this flapping-wing robot apart from existing models that maintain their wings in a fixed position.
The implications of this research extend beyond robotics, with potential applications in search and rescue missions, biomechanical studies of insect flight, and even education. The versatility of the flapping microrobot allows it to navigate confined spaces, crawl on surfaces, and seamlessly transition between flight and other locomotion modes. Additionally, its low-flapping frequency makes it safe and user-friendly for various engineering and educational purposes.
As Phan and his colleagues continue to test and refine their microrobot design, the possibilities for its utilization are vast. Future studies may explore the application of passive strategies in other insect species, contributing to a deeper understanding of insect flight mechanics. The development of flying robots that mimic insect behaviors opens up new avenues for exploration and innovation in fields ranging from engineering to biology.
Overall, the study of beetle wing dynamics has paved the way for a new era of flying robotics that draws inspiration from nature’s intricate designs. By learning from the passive mechanisms found in insects, researchers are pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of aerial robotics.