Modeling of Bendable MAV Wing Using Energy Method

Out of many exciting and unique micro air vehicles (MAVs) being developed at the University of Florida, one MAV design utilizes a bendable wing concept. To minimize the storage volume, the wing is rolled and the MAV is stored inside a canister. To predict the shape of the wing and consequently initial strain produced in the wing, when it is stored inside canister, energy method principal is used. An analytical model is developed which predicts the shape and initial strains in the wing by modeling the wing as a one dimensional composite beam. Results of the analytical model prediction are compared with the experimental observations.