Two-Dimensional Fluid-Structure Interaction of Flapping Micro Aerial Vehicles

Abstract

In this thesis, flow around flapping micro aerial vehicles is analyzed by two-dimensional fluid-structure interaction (FSI) simulation. Flow analysis program is developed using the two-dimensional unsteady incompressible Navier-Stokes equations based on arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian framework, and validated with the case of a plunging flexible airfoil. Structure analysis program is developed using nonlinear co-rotational plane beam formulation and validated with cantilevered plate under tip load condition problem and plunging plate problem. Two programs are coupled with implicit coupling strategy, and Delaunay graph mapping method is adopted for dynamic grid deformation and common-refinement method for data transfer. The developed FSI program is validated with plunging flexible airfoil case. By two-dimensional FSI simulation of hovering flapping micro aerial vehicles (FMAVs), the effect of flexibility of the FMAVs' wing on aerodynamic performances is investigated in conjunction with unsteady force generation mechanisms.