An experimental investigation of flapping wing aerodynamics in micro air vehicles
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Authors
Bradshaw, Christopher John
Subjects
Advisors
Jones, Kevin D.
Date of Issue
2003-06
Date
Publisher
Monterey, California. Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
Flapping-wing propulsion was studied experimentally through Laser Doppler Velocimetry. Measurements were both time-averaged and unsteady, and were conducted on a Micro-Air Vehicle (MAV) model developed at NPS by Professors Max Platzer and Kevin Jones. The objective of this work was to further understanding of the aerodynamics of flapping-wing propulsion. In specific, this study examined separation control on the leading fixed wing due to entrainment by the trailing flapping wings. Further, a study of wake topology examined differences between the optimal and off-optimal cases. Experimental studies took place in the NPS 5' x 5' low speed wind tunnel. The model was supported on a test stand and LDV measurements of the flow field were taken. Studies were made at varying freestream velocities, angles of attack, and flapping frequencies. The test stand was instrumented with force balances to show forces in both the streamwise and vertical directions.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
Aeronautical Engineering
Organization
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
Sponsors
Funder
Format
xviii, 91 p. : col. ill. ;
Citation
Distribution Statement
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
Rights
This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.