Numerical Investigation on Flapping Aerodynamic Performance of Dragonfly Wings in Crosswind

Abstract

Numerical simulations are performed to investigate the influence of crosswind on the aerodynamic characteristics of rigid dragonfly-like flapping wings through the solution of the three-dimensional unsteady Navier-Stokes equations. The aerodynamic forces, the moments, and the flow structures of four dragonfly wings are examined when the sideslip angle ϑ between the crosswind and the flight direction varied from 0o to 90o. The stability of the dragonfly model in crosswind is analyzed. The results show that the sideslip angle ϑ has a little effect on the total time-average lift force but significant influence on the total time-average thrust force, lateral force, and three-direction torques. An increase in the sideslip angle gives rise to a larger total time-average lateral force and yaw moment. These may accelerate the lateral skewing of the dragonfly, and the increased rolling and pitching moments will further aggravate the instability of the dragonfly model. The vorticities and reattached flow on the wings move laterally to one side due to the crosswind, and the pressure on wing surfaces is no longer symmetrical and hence, the balance between the aerodynamic forces of the wings on two sides is broken. The effects of the sideslip angle ϑ on each dragonfly wing are different, e.g., ϑ has a greater effect on the aerodynamic forces of the hind wings than those of the fore wings. When sensing a crosswind, it is optimal to control the two hind wings of the bionic dragonfly-like micro aerial vehicles.