Articles | Volume 16, issue 2
https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-16-493-2025
https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-16-493-2025
Research article
 | 
29 Sep 2025
Research article |  | 29 Sep 2025

Energy self-consistency of small aircraft combining triboelectric nanogenerator structure and flexible-wing technology

Ganchao Zhao and Zhiqiang Liu

Cited articles

Ahmad, D., Parancheerivilakkathil, M. S., Kumar, A., Goswami, M., Ajaj, R. M., Patra, K., Jawaid, M., Volokh, K., and Zweiri, Y.: Recent developments of polymer-based skins for morphing wing applications, Polym. Test., 135, 108463, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.polymertesting.2024.108463, 2024. 
Aliabadi, S. K., Parsa, M. R., and Moghadam, M. M.: Experimental study of flapping-wing aerodynamic coefficients and landing performance estimation, Meccanica, 58, 711–726, https://doi.org/10.1007/s11012-023-01644-7, 2023. 
Chattaraj, N. and Ganguli, R.: Mechatronic approaches to synthesize biomimetic flapping-wing mechanisms: a review, Int. J. Aeronaut. Space, 24, 105–120, https://doi.org/10.1007/s42405-022-00527-7, 2023. 
Cui, S., Zhou, L., Liu, D., Li, S., Liu, L., Chen, S., Zhao, Z., Yuan, W., Wang, Z. L., and Wang, J.: Improving performance of triboelectric nanogenerators by dielectric enhancement effect, Matter, 5, 180–193, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.matt.2021.10.019, 2022. 
Download
Short summary
This study explores a new way to power small flying vehicles by using their wing movements to generate electricity. By combining a special energy-harvesting material with flexible wings made from silk protein, the design produces steady power and reduces reliance on batteries. Tests showed improved energy efficiency and stability. This approach could lead to lighter, more sustainable aircraft for future use. 
Share