Dynamics modeling and experiment validation for piezoelectric-transmission-wing system

Aiming at the challenge of predicting the dynamic behavior of the flapping wing in the piezoelectric-transmission-wing (PTW) wingbeat system, a lumped-parameter model coupling piezoelectric structural mechanics and flapping-wing aerodynamics is proposed to address the challenge caused by the fluid-structure interaction (FSI). Firstly, a model describing the piezoelectric mechanical response is established, which has the ability to better predict the mechanical response of the piezoelectric actuator under high electric field and low-frequency driving conditions. In order to verify the validity and accuracy, tip deflection, stiffness and blocking force experiments as well as data comparisons are performed to substantiate the findings. Secondly, a comprehensive and reasonable lumped-parameter dynamic model is constructed based on the analysis of the transmission mechanics based on pseudo-rigid-body theory and the improved aerodynamic modeling of the wing, along with the aforementioned piezoelectric mechanical modeling. Thirdly, simulation and dynamic response experiments of the wingbeat system are carried out. Results show that the simulation data are in good agreement with the experimental values, which indicates the accuracy of the model in predicting the dynamic behavior of the flapping wing powered by the piezoelectric actuator. Moreover, some interesting phenomena such as the pitch oscillation of the wing and the dependence of the flapping motion on the driving frequency have been demonstrated in the simulation and the wingbeat experiment, respectively. The research findings of this article offer three types of assistance: (1) providing a parameter design method for piezoelectric actuators to achieve the desired mechanical response; (2) predicting and explaining the dynamic behavior of the PTW wingbeat system; and (3) providing a theoretical foundation for the parameter design and optimization of the wing-actuator pairing in the flapping wing system.