Abstract
We explore the stability of flapping flight in a model system that consists of a pyramid-shaped object hovering in a vertically oscillating airflow. Such a flyer not only generates sufficient aerodynamic force to keep aloft but also robustly maintains balance during free flight. Flow visualization reveals that both weight support and orientational stability result from the periodic shedding of vortices. We explain these findings with a model of the flight dynamics, predict increasing stability for higher center of mass, and verify this counterintuitive fact by comparing top- and bottom-heavy flyers.
- Received 28 July 2011
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.108.068103
© 2012 American Physical Society
Synopsis
Floats Like a Pyramid
Published 9 February 2012
Paper pyramids hovering in an oscillating air column enlighten us about the stability of flying insects.
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