Flight dynamics and control of flapping-wing MAVs: A review

Haithem E. Taha, Muhammad R. Hajj, Ali H. Nayfeh

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

159 Scopus citations

Abstract

This paper provides a thorough review of the significant work done so far in the area of flight dynamics and control of flapping-wing micro-airvehicles (MAVs). It provides the background necessary to do research in that area. Furthermore, it raises questions that need to be addressed in the future. The three main blocks constituting the flight dynamic framework of flapping MAVs are reviewed. These blocks are the flapping kinematics, the aerodynamic modeling, and the body dynamics. The design and parametrization of the flapping kinematics necessary to produce high-control authority over the MAV, as well as design of kinematics suitable for different flight conditions, are reviewed. Aerodynamic models used for analysis of flapping flight are discussed. Particular attention is given to the physical aspects captured by these models. The issues and consequences of averaging the dynamics and neglecting the wing inertia are discussed. The dynamic stability analysis of flapping MAVs is usually performed by either averaging, linearization and subsequent analysis or using Floquet theory. Both approaches are discussed. The linear and nonlinear control design techniques for flapping MAVs are also reviewed and discussed.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)907-939
Number of pages33
JournalNonlinear Dynamics
Volume70
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 2012

Keywords

  • Aerodynamic modeling
  • Averaging
  • Flapping MAVs/insects
  • Floquet theory
  • High frequency periodic control and differential flatness
  • Kinematic design
  • Leading edge vortex
  • Stability analysis

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Flight dynamics and control of flapping-wing MAVs: A review'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this