Flapping-Wing Propulsion for a Micro Air Vehicle
Loading...
Authors
Jones, K.D.
Duggan, S.J.
Platzer, M.F.
Subjects
Advisors
Date of Issue
2001
Date
Publisher
American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA)
Language
Abstract
Recent interest in the development of micro air vehicles has led to a renewed interest in flapping-wing propulsion due to the spectacular performance of small birds and insects in this flight regime. Small flapping-wing models, no bigger than 15 centimeters in any dimension, are designed, built and tested in a low speed wind-tunnel. The composite models weigh as little as 6 grams, and flap at frequencies in excess of 38Hz. Both qualitative and quantitative data are obtained. A smoke-wire is used to visualize the highly unsteady, three-dimensional flowfields, providing some insight into the complicated nature of the flow, with comparisons to numerical models where possible. Operating in the Reynolds number range below 24,000, flow visualization indicates separated flow over most of the flapping cycle. Direct thrust measurements are made for several configurations, and illustrate the advantages of aeroelastic tailoring of the structure. While many of the model's aerodynamic characteristics still need further investigation, the present model produces sufficient thrust to hover, and it overcomes its own drag at speeds up to 5.5 meters per second.
Type
Conference Paper
Description
AIAA Paper No. 2001-0126, 39th AIAA Aerospace Sciences Meeting, Reno, Nevada, Jan. 2001.
Series/Report No
Department
Organization
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
Sponsors
Funding
Format
Citation
Jones, K.D., Duggan, S.J. and Platzer, M.F., "Flapping-Wing Propulsion for a Micro Air Vehicle," AIAA Paper No. 2001-0126, 39th AIAA Aerospace Sciences Meeting, Reno, Nevada, Jan. 2001.
Distribution Statement
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.