Abstract
This study relates the structural deformation and the unsteady aerodynamics involved for lift production in bioinspired nanocomposite flapping wings. The sectional chord deformation effects on theoretically supported aerodynamic lift are addressed. Digital image correlation setup and L-shape mechanism are developed and synchronized for wing deformation and aerodynamic forces measurement respectively. DIC system with estimated resolution of 0.159 mm/pixel and L-shape mechanism with net uncertainty of ± 0.72 % verify the measurement accuracy for low Reynolds number flapping wing experiments and alike miniature aero-structures. The flapping wing shape is investigated at 25%, 50% and 75% wing-span to study the effect of sectional chord deformation on lift components obtained from Theodorsen theory. Circulatory lift is dominant at mid-downstroke while Non-circulatory lift is dominant at the beginning of flapping cycle due to inertial effects.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
