160

N. Chari et al.

Fig. 12.1 Variation of Reynolds number in biological fliers [3]

Additional Aspects to Be Considered for MAV Design

The following are some of the additional factors which need careful attention in the

Insect Mimicking MAV Design and Development.

(a)

Data bank of flight of larger flying insects suitable for MAVs

(b)

MI studies on insect wings and MAVs

(c)

Non-dimensional numbers and their significance in MAV studies

(d)

Additional lift enhancing devices such as those in present insects.

Bio-mimicking MAVs Design Based on Insect Flight

MAVs can be used for observation or surveillance of remote areas and offer many

applications in civilian and military sectors. The flapping wings are aerodynamically

moreefficientthanfixedwings;hence,itisadvantageoustousethemforMAVdesign.

Bio-mimickingoftheinsectflightmaybeeasierascomparedtothebirdflightbecause

the insect wings are chitinous membranes, as opposed to the complex feathery wings

of birds. The bird wings on the other hand also have a complex network of nerves and

muscles for flight control, which is difficult to replicate in MAV design. Hence it is

relatively easier to develop insect mimicking MAVs as compared to Bird-Mimicking

MAVs. The challenge, however, lies in the miniaturization of different constituent