Three-Dimensional Flow Field Investigations of Flapping Wing Aerodynamics

Three-dimensional unsteady flow fields of a flapping, low-aspect-ratio wing have been investigated by means of highly resolved tomographic particle image velocimetry (Tomo-PIV) measurements and computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Furthermore, force measurements have been carried out. Tomo-PIV was applied to the flow above a flat plate wing during the downstroke. High spatial resolution and large volume thickness could be achieved by using sensitive sCMOS cameras and a traversing setup. The CFD calculations covered the complete period of motion. The analysis of the vortex-dominated flow fields provides a deeper understanding of vortex interaction and three-dimensionality of low Reynolds number (Re = 18; 000 and Re = 36; 000) flows. Two different Strouhal numbers (St = 0.06 and St = 0.13) are considered and their effects on the development of a leading edge and tip vortex are discussed. The PIV results show instantaneous flow fields after a leading edge separation that are dominated by small-scale turbulent vortex structures. The presented CFD approach is able to predict these vortices by using highly resolved meshes. Coarser grids compare well with the phase-averaged experimental flow fields, which feature multiple large-scale leading edge vortices developing during the downstroke. Turbulent effects decrease for the lower Reynolds number. Force and moment hystereses as well as large-scale leading edge vortice circulation, calculated from the PIV results, increase with increasing Strouhal number. Vortex breakdown of the wing tip vortex can be observed during the downstroke in the experimental data.