Iran develops flapping MAV

Tehran, May 7, IRNA - A graduated student from the Isfahan University of Technology has designed a flapping micro air vehicle (MAV), which could be used for research, industrial and military purposes. Mostafa Hassanalian, who is also member of Iran’s National Elites Foundation, said MAV is a class of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) that has a size restriction and may be autonomous. He added that MAVs are produced in four models: fixed-wing, vertical takeoff, flapping and rotary-wing. Hassanalian wrote his thesis on designing flapping micro air vehicle, which was selected as the best thesis at the 22nd International Conference on Mechanical Engineering. The conference was held at Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz during April 22-24 and was supported by Iran’s Society of Mechanical Engineering. Inspired by flying animals, the flapping MAV is highly maneuverable, able to quickly transition between multiple flight regimes (such as between hover and forward flying), and can withstand collisions. Their low weight and unobtrusive appearance, as well their ability to fly at low speeds and operate quietly, make them more suitable for indoor use or in the presence of humans than many other aerial platforms. end