Exoskeleton-Controlled Flapping Wing Flight System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flapping wing systems have not been brought to practical use, and alternative flight systems like hang gliders and paragliders lack dynamism and the ability to climb independently, relying on updrafts for height gain.
Innovation Solution
A flight system with actuated flapping wings and an actuated tail unit, controlled by a pilot using an exoskeleton that receives motion sensor signals to define movement signals, allowing for ergonomic, safe, and fatigue-free flying, with the option for independent movement of the exoskeleton and feedback control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional control systems are used for flapping wings, then direct mechanical linkage is simple, but pilot fatigue increases and control becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces direct mechanical linkage between pilot and flapping wings with an electronic control system. Motion sensors detect pilot's body movements, and a control unit processes these signals to actuate the wings, eliminating the need for complex mechanical transmission mechanisms and reducing pilot fatigue.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces motion sensors and a control unit as intermediaries between the pilot and the flapping wings. These intermediaries convert the pilot's natural body movements into precise control commands, allowing intuitive control without direct mechanical coupling.
2Adaptability or versatility
If flapping wing systems are designed for vertical climb capability, then flight versatility improves, but system complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamically adjustable flapping wings that can change their motion characteristics in real-time. The wings can transition between different flapping patterns to achieve various flight modes including vertical climb, horizontal flight, and gliding, all controlled through the same sensor-based control system without requiring separate mechanical systems for each mode.
3Speed
If direct mechanical coupling is used between pilot and wings, then control response is immediate, but pilot fatigue increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces direct mechanical coupling with an electronic control system that uses motion sensors to detect pilot movements. The control unit processes these signals electronically and actuates the wings accordingly, achieving immediate control response without the mechanical transmission losses and fatigue associated with direct mechanical linkage.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a flight system having at least two actuated flapping wings (2), an actuated tail unit (9), a control device and an exoskeleton (1) for at least one person. The exoskeleton (1) is movable independently of the flapping wings (2). The control device is configured to receive motion sensor signals from the exoskeleton (1) and to use the motion sensor signals to define specified movement signals and to control the flapping wings (2) and/or the tail unit (9) by way of the specified movement signals. The specified movement signals can be defined such that the movements of the flapping wings (2) and/or of the tail unit (9) follow those of the exoskeleton (1).