Wing Geometry and Dynamic Similarity in Insect Flight

Abstract

The study of insect and bird flight has always been a curiosity, but it is yet to be described as plentifully as fixed wing aerodynamics. The United States military has expressed an interest in this topic, providing some institutions with funding. The main intention for this type of research is to develop small robots resembling insects or birds for use in exploration, surveillance and intelligence. While conceptually these applications could be accomplished with fixed-wing aircraft, there is a tremendous lack of stealth in these vehicles. The velocities associated with the required lift forces for small flapping-wing insect flights are significantly smaller than for insect-size fixed-wing aircraft. Therefore, it is more feasible and practical to aim for flapping wing flight.