This paper reports the results of an experimental investigation on a two-dimensional (2-D) wing undergoing symmetric simple harmonic flapping motion. The purpose of this investigation is to study how flapping frequency (or Reynolds number) and angular amplitude affect aerodynamic force generation and the associated flow field during flapping for Reynolds number (Re) ranging from 663 to 2652, and angular amplitudes (alphaA) of 30 deg , 45 deg and 60 deg. The results support the findings of earlier studies that fluid inertia and leading edge vortices play dominant roles in the generation of aerodynamic forces. More importantly, time-resolved force coefficients during flapping are found to be more sensitive to changes in alphaA than in Re. In fact, a subtle change in alphaA may lead to considerable changes in the lift and drag coefficients, and there appears to be an optimal mean lift coefficient (Cl) around alphaA = 45 deg, at least for the range of flow parameters considered here. This optimal condition coincides with the development a reverse Karman Vortex street in the wake, which has a higher jet stream than a vortex dipole at alphaA = 30 deg and a neutral wake structure at alphaA = 60 deg. Although Re has less effect on temporal force coefficients and the associated wake structures, increasing Re tends to equalize mean lift coefficients (and also mean drag coefficients) during downstroke and upstroke, thus suggesting an increasing symmetry in the mean force generation between these strokes. Although the current study deals with a 2-D hovering motion only, the unique force characteristics observed here, particularly their strong dependence on alphaA, may also occur in a three-dimensional hovering motion, and flying insects may well have taken advantage of these characteristics to help them to stay aloft and maneuver.
Aerodynamic forces and flow fields of a two-dimensional hovering wing
Aerodynamische Kräfte und Strömungsfelder an einem zweidimensionalen Schwebeflugflügel
Experiments in Fluids ; 45 , 6 ; 1047-1071
2008
25 Seiten, 21 Bilder, 41 Quellen
Article (Journal)
English
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