A three dimensional model of the flow about a flapping wing with leading edge separation
by
Valentin Butoescu
National Institute for Aerospace Research "Elie Carafoli"

The paper presents a model of three dimensional flow about a pair of flapping wings for applications to the micro air vehicles. The vortex model considers the wakes free. As the last experimental works showed, a leading edge vortex is almost always present, which generates a strong three dimensional pattern to the flow. Therefore the model should include vortex layers at both leading and trailing edges. The wings are considered rigid and their movements are known. Comparison is made with the results obtained with the quasi steady method.

Date received: March 12, 2008