Koji Tsuyuki

Morphology of insect wings and airflow produced by flapping insects

This article describes the results of some experiments concerning wing morphology and flight performance of some flying insects: cicadas, dragonflies, and gadflies. First, the wing structures of these insects are measured down to the minutest detail by a three-dimensional curve-shaped measuring system. The surface shapes of the insect wings are mapped by distinct three-dimensional images. From the three-dimensional images, correlation coefficients are calculated by comparisons of the distribution of undulation on the wings. The surface shapes and the correlation coefficients show a difference in functions for flapping flight between each wing. Second, the distribution of velocity fields around a flapping cicada and a flapping dragonfly are visualized with a PIV system to identify the airflow generated by the wings. The distribution of velocity vectors for one stroke of a dragonfly wing is explained in the article. Additionally, the difference of airflow around the wings of a dragonfly and a cicada are revealed. It is found that the flapping forewing of the dragonfly carries out an important motion in its highly efficient flight.

A magnetic fluid microdevice using insect wings

A magnetic fluid microdevice using Diptera insect wings is proposed and constructed. The magnetic fluid device is composed of insect wings, a small permanent magnet, coil, and kerosene-based magnetic fluid. First, the structural properties of insect wings are studied through measurements of certain morphological parameters. Secondly, the novel type of microwind energy converter is constructed. Thirdly, the power generation characteristics of the magnetic fluid microdevice using insect wings are examined. It is found that the output power is roughly proportional to the cube of the airflow velocity.

Microenergy Converter Using Insect Wings

This paper is concerned with the development of novel type of micro wind energy converter using insect wings. A series of experimental studies are made on the function of wing apparatus of flying insects. In the first place, the structural properties of insect wings are studied through measurements of certain morphological parameters. The scanning electron microscopic observation of an insect wing shows the morphological characteristics and kinematic characteristics of a fly. In the second place, the novel type of micro wind energy converter is constructed. The micro wind energy converter is composed of the permanent magnet (NdFeB magnet), magnetic fluid (kerosene-based magnetic fluid ferricolloid HC-50), coil, and insect wings. The power generation characteristics of the micro wind energy converter using fly wings are examined. The airfoils of energy converter are Diptera insect wings. It is confirmed that the output signals reach hundreds of mV. The power generation characteristics of the micro wind energy converter with ABS resin wings are also examined. The size of artificial wing is almost equal to the insect wing. It is found that the micro wind energy converter using insect wings shows higher output voltage compared with artificial wings.