A flapper to mimic flapping frequency of a beetle using a piezoceramic actuator

In this paper, we have demonstrated an approach to increase flapping frequency of a previously developed flapper, which is actuated by Lightweight Piezo-Composite Actuator (LIPCA). This is an effort to mimic the flapping motion of Allomyrina Dichotoma, of which flapping frequency is typically 30㎐. For this purpose, the dynamic characteristic of the LIPCA and the parameter study of a four-bar linkage have been studied. The topology of the linkage system was investigated for the amplification of rotation angle and the moment transfer efficiency. Based on the results we suggested a new design of the linkages might provide a higher flapping frequency. The new four-bar linkage system was fabricated and tested to verify the possibility. The optimal flapping frequency of the modified flapper was measured to be about 18㎐. It is about 100% increase compared to the flapping frequency of the previous flapper.