The inspiration for flying robotic systems has often been derived from the wing dynamics of flying animal species such as birds, bats, and insects. While the wing movements of birds and bats are well understood, the processes underlying the wing movements of many insects remain a mystery to researchers. Recent studies conducted by researchers at Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL, Switzerland) and Konkuk University (South Korea) have shed light on how herbivorous insects known as rhinoceros beetles deploy and retract their wings, providing valuable insights for the development of new flapping microrobots.
The hindwings of beetles resemble foldable origami structures, capable of being neatly folded and stored under the elytra while at rest, and passively deployed during flight. Previous studies attempting to replicate the dynamics of beetle wings in robots focused on origami-like structures without considering movements at the base of the hindwings. However, new research has revealed a more intricate process involving passive wing deployment inspired by the natural mechanisms observed in rhinoceros beetles.
It was previously believed that beetles, like birds and bats, used thoracic muscles to actively deploy and retract their wings. However, recent findings by lead author Hoang-Vu Phan suggest that beetles can leverage their elytra and flapping forces to passively deploy their hindwings for flight. This passive mechanism eliminates the need for thoracic muscles typically involved in bird and bat flight, offering new insights into the biomechanics of insect wing movements.
Building upon the insights gathered from the study of rhinoceros beetles, researchers have successfully developed a flapping microrobot that mimics the passive wing deployment observed in nature. The microrobot, weighing 18 grams and approximately two times larger than an actual beetle, can fold its wings along the body at rest and passively deploy them for takeoff and stable flight. By using elastic tendons installed at the armpits, the robot can close its wings passively, demonstrating a novel approach to flapping-wing robotic design.
The implications of these findings extend beyond robotics, with potential applications in search and rescue missions, biomechanics studies, and educational purposes. The microrobot with foldable wings can navigate confined spaces inaccessible to humans, while also offering insights into the flight mechanics of insects. Furthermore, the versatility of the flapping robot opens up possibilities for engineering research and educational activities for children, highlighting its potential as a versatile tool for various fields.
The research on passive wing deployment inspired by rhinoceros beetles has shown that nature’s design can provide valuable insights for technological advancements. By understanding and replicating the intricate mechanisms underlying insect wing movements, researchers have opened new doors for the development of innovative robotic systems with a wide range of applications. The journey to explore and harness nature’s wisdom continues, paving the way for the advancement of science and technology in diverse fields.
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