Effect of a flapping wing geometry on its aerodynamic performance

The effect of the geometry of a flapping wing on its aerodynamic performance is studied using numerical method, where the incompressible N-S equations are solved based on finite volume method. The flow structure, aerodynamic force and the energy consumption of the wing with different planform and aspect ratio (AR) are examined. It is found that the geometry of the wing can influence its aerodynamic characteristics significantly and if the wing has an appropriate geometry (i.e. 1/4 ellipse wing with AR=4.0) the geometry can decrease the fluctuation of aerodynamic force, reduce the energy coefficient, and meanwhile keep the ratio of mean lift coefficient and drag coefficient almost unchanged. The present results provide useful information for the design of flapping wing MAV.