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Engineers studying cupped-wing design for bio-inspired drone technology
The mechanism of the upstroke and downstroke sequential wing mechanics are being studied to build next-generation flapping-wing micro air vehicles (drones) and soft robotic aquatic propulsion devices. The downstroke is primarily used to provide standard weight support against gravity, the upstroke “clap” acts as a major source of forward thrust. This highly advanced, dual-purpose approach allows butterflies to generate massive force instantly from a stationary perch. Because this flexible, cupped-wing design increases propulsion efficiency by roughly 28% over rigid models.Â
Engineers are copying the butterfly’s “clap-and-fling” technique to upgrade small, propellerless drones. Traditional micro drones struggle with battery life and slow takeoffs because flat, rigid wings require too much energy. By using flexible, lightweight plastics, researchers built mechanical wings that mimic the real insect’s cupped-wing shape. This flexibility allows the robotic wings to form an air pocket during the upstroke, boosting propulsion efficiency. These bio-inspired drones can launch instantly from tight spaces, making them perfect for navigating indoor search-and-rescue environments safely.
If you would like to learn more Lund University in Sweden has some YouTube Videos and more detailed information. “The Lund researchers studied the wingbeats of freely flying butterflies during take-off in a wind tunnel. During the upward stroke, the wings cup, creating an air-filled pocket between them. When the wings then collide, the air is forced out, resulting in a backward jet that propels the butterflies forward. The downward wingbeat has another function: the butterflies stay in the air and do not fall to the ground.”
The link below takes you to Lund University for a more detailed explanation and videos!
https://www.lunduniversity.lu.se/article/butterfly-wing-clap-explains-mystery-flight
Thank you for your visit!