Muneo Futamura

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.