The aerodynamic characteristics of insect flight are investigated with the aim of developing an aerodynamic flapping-wing model for vertical and level forward flight. Models are sought that offer a compromise between physics and the rapidity of calculation. The insect prototype is the hawk moth. The wings have three degrees of freedom (pitching, weaving, and flapping) and are assumed as thin, rigid, flat plates. The aerodynamic forces and moments are determined via a quasi-steady-state model. This model is augmented with a design procedure to account for the unsteady flow due to the wake induced effects. Comparisons are shown with numerical simulations for the hover case and with experimental results for the forward-flight case. A heuristic optimization strategy (particle swarming optimization) is used to determine the set of optimal flight parameters over a range of forward speeds. It is demonstrated how this computational strategy is effective in reducing the power requirements. It is also demonstrated that the induced flow effects are strongest in the middle of the stroke. Finally, the aerodynamic effects of the wing shape are shown.
Aerodynamic Model for Insect Flapping Wings with Induced Flow Effect
Journal of aircraft ; 53 , 3
2016
Article (Journal)
English
Aerodynamic Model for Insect Flapping Wings with Induced Flow Effect
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