Electronics and Testing

So far the electronics team began by developing a prototype Arduino-based Test Stand tailored for the of power consumption and lift of both our flapping wings. Recognising the need for enhanced accuracy, we later procured a more precise test stand which we will utilise in future testing. 

Below are images of the test stand with early iterations of a mechanism. 

When doing research  for the flapping mechanism the method decided upon was to use ornithopters. Traditional ornithopters typically use conventional electric motors in conjunction with a type of mechanical linkage to produce flapping movement, it is this mechanism and motor that represents the majority of the overall weight, limiting the performance and functionality of the drone. We are proposing a new method of creating flapping wing drones, utilising electromagnetic actuators and Flexible PCB manufacturing techniques to integrate the electronics and wing structure into a singular system. Combining the two systems will provide several benefits such as weight reduction, improved actuator efficiency and a more scalable accurate design. 

To develop an understating of flexible PCB based electromagnetic actuators, we purchased a number of cheaply available units from a company called Flexar which specialise in such devices for hobbyist and educational use. After receiving the units we have performed experiments with how they can be driven and how much force they can output.

Our latest work has involved 3D printing a number of modified mounting units for the actuators to enable the larger flap angles required for a flapping wing drone.

Written by Joseph Hutchinson