Study of micro-sized technology, micro air vehicles, and design of a payload carrying flapping wing micro air vehicle

Abstract

There has been recent interest by the military to have platforms capable of operating close to a point of interest without being detected while providing critical surveillance. By providing information that is not readily available, these platforms could provide a useful tool for small unit commanders in potentially life-threatening situations. Highly maneuverable, slow-flying micro air vehicles could fly under canopies, through alleys, or indoors to provide such intelligence. This study consists of a survey of current micro-sized technologies and commercially available components. The findings are presented and used in the design process of a larger payload-carrying variant of the NPS flapping wing micro air vehicle. The intent is to develop a readily deployable, backpackable, slow-flying micro air vehicle that can be used by smaller-size ground units in theatre for urban reconnaissance.