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Aerodynamics of forward flight in insects

ReferenceS15338
Principal Investigator / Supervisor Professor Charles Ellington
Co-Investigators /
Co-Supervisors
Visiting Professor Nicholas Lawson
Institution University of Cambridge
DepartmentZoology
Funding typeResearch
Value (£) 205,856
StatusCompleted
TypeResearch Grant
Start date 01/08/2001
End date 31/07/2004
Duration36 months

Abstract

The aerodynamics of forward flight in insects will be investigated using a flapping mechanical model, with independent control of forewing and hindwing kinematics, towed through water. Qualitative and quantitative flow visualization will be combined with simultaneous force measurements to examine the effects of flight speed on spiral leading-edge vortex characteristics, rotational circulation, wake-induced forces and forewing/hindwing interaction. Experiments will mimic the flight of hawkmoths, which have a single functional pair of wings, and dragonflies, which have two pairs of uncoupled wings of roughly equal area.

Summary

unavailable
Committee Closed Committee - Animal Sciences (AS)
Research TopicsX – not assigned to a current Research Topic
Research PriorityX – Research Priority information not available
Research Initiative X - not in an Initiative
Funding SchemeX – not Funded via a specific Funding Scheme
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