Theoretical Modeling of Flapping Wings

Objectives

  • Model and analyze the aerodynamic performance e.g. lift, thrust, and efficiency of flapping wings as a function of wing structural parameters and wing kinematics.
  • Understand the role of flexible wings in biological flight.
  • Test the hypothesis that a universal optimal bending mode exists in flying and swimming.

Approach - Fluid Structure Interaction

Highlights

Achievements

  • Developed an analytical model for the lift and wing deformation of a chord wise flexible flapping wing in hover.
  • Evaluated aerodynamic performance of the wing using the mathematical model for various motion frequencies and with different flexibilities.
  • Comprehensive comparisons against numerical computations.

Future Work

  • Develop an analytical model for flexible flapping wing in forward flight and evaluate the aerodynamic performance.
  • Universal optimal bending mode in flying and swimming.

Researchers

  • Dr. Chang-kwon Kang, Assistant Professor, MAE
  • PhD Student: Deepa Kodali
  • M.S Student: Louis Salmon

References

1. Kang, C. and Shyy, W., Analytical model for instantaneous lift and shape deformation of an insect-scale flapping wing in hover,” Journal of Royal Society Interface, Vol. 11, no. 101, 2014

2. Kodali, D and Kang, C., Analytical aerodynamic model of chord wise flexible flapping wings in forward flight,” Abstract accepted for AIAA Conference , SciTech 2016

3. Kang, C. and Shyy, W., Scaling law and enhancement of lift generation of an insect-size hovering flexible wing,” Journal of Royal Society Interface, Vol. 10 no. 85, 2013

4. Kang, C. and Shyy, W., Scaling law and enhancement of lift generation of an insect-size hovering flexible wing,” Journal of Royal Society Interface, Vol. 10, no. 85, 2013