Coupling between elytra of some beetles: Mechanism, forces and effect of surface texture

Abstract

Lightweight materials, structures and coupling mechanisms are very important for realizing advanced flight vehicles. Here, we obtained the geometric structures and morphologies of the elytra of beetles and ascertained its coupling zone by using the histological section technique and SEM. We set up a three-dimensional motion observing system to monitor the opening and closing behaviour of elytra in beetles and to determine the motion mechanism. We constructed a force measuring system to measure the coupling forces between elytra. The results show that elytra open and close by rotating about a single axle, where the coupling forces may be as high as 160 times its own bodyweight, the elytra coupling with the tenon and mortise mechanism, surface texture and opening angle between elytra heavily influence the coupling forces. These results may provide insights into the design mechanism and structure for future vehicles of flight.

Improvement of the aerodynamic performance by wing flexibility and elytra–hind wing interaction of a beetle during forward flight

“…Their main objective is apparently a protective function of the hind wings in resting state. The coupling force owing to the interlocking mechanism for opening and closing elytra may be as high as 160 times the gravity force of its own bodyweight [39]. The high force allows the beetle to safely penetrate soil, wood and hard material and to protect a thin and highly flexible hind wing that shows extraordinary aerodynamic performance.…”

Biological couplings: Classification and characteristic rules

“…Those characters are suitable to the mechanics and geometry. In fact, this joggle conjugation, such as in the blades and discs in Figure 4 Histological sections taken along the scutellum of the beetle molossus [20] . (a) Coupling between elytra (cross-section of air-dried sample); (b) cross section; (c) the gradation of the tenon and mortise in the suture.…”

“…(a) Coupling between elytra (cross-section of air-dried sample); (b) cross section; (c) the gradation of the tenon and mortise in the suture. turbine engines, is a self-locking mechanism and easily unlocking [20] .…”

Structural design inspired by beetle elytra and its mechanical properties

“…Statistically, savings of $300, $3000, or $30000 may be made by trimming just 1 pound from the weight of civil aircraft, fighter aircraft, or satellites and space stations, respectively [1]. Since a fuel savings of 5% results from a vehicle weight reduction of 10%, reducing weight is one of the most effective ways for the automobile industry to trim vehicle fuel consumption [1]. Additionally, a lightweight structure plays a role in reducing noise, reducing CO 2 emissions and protecting the environment.…”