Microdrone Entomopter concept by pauljs75

Bryce • Science/Medical • posted on May 20, 2003

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Description

Entom - from entomorph as in insect (ie: entomology - the study of insects.)
Opter - that which flies like or by means of (ie: ornithopter - birdlike flying machine.)

Entomopter: Any machine or mechanical device which may fly in the manner of an insect or by insectlike means.

This design was bouncing around in my head for a while so I had to model it in order to get it out. The key component of the entomopter is the wing root articulating assembly which allows for rapid motion control of "flap" (z-rotation), sweep (y-rotation), and pitch (x-rotation). By using a counterspring energy only needs to be used for half of the wing flapping cycle. Mechanical power is provided by little devices called piezoretractors (whether or not there is such a thing I don't know.) The base of the piezoretractor bulges outwards when energized which pulls in the retractor pin providing a rapid and short linear motion. General flight mechanics of each wing is controled by adjusting the pulserate and dwell cycle to one of three piezoretractors controlling the wing. At least that's how this concept works.

Note: This model still needs a bit more work. It's currently missing the pitch control retractor and spring. If anyone is interested in such a model, I might make it available at a later time when fully completed.