OVMI approach

In addition to the objectives set out in the previous paragraphs as the main design and implementation criteria, the simplicity and low cost of the chosen solution are overriding criteria.

Following these specifications, the prototype is built around a monolithic structure comprising wings, thorax, tergum, spool support and links. The thorax and coil support are 5 mm in diameter, the prototype has a wingspan of 2 cm, and the tergum is a simple bar connecting the two wings via a flexible link to which a 1.5 or 1 mm diameter magnet is attached. This magnet is part of the electromagnetic actuator used to excite the prototype at the wings' natural frequency. The coil, which completes this device and must remain fixed, is glued to the coil support, which is itself glued to the thorax (figure