image: This a validation of CFD (computational fluid dynamics) simulation using full fidelity wing kinematics (left column: 3.3ms-1 free stream, 9° body angle), against DPIV (digital particle image velocimetry) measurements (middle column: 3.5 ms-1 free stream, 7° body angle) and smoke visualizations (right column: 3.3ms-1 free stream, 9° body angle). Data are shown at four consecutive stages (A to D) of the wingbeat, beginning with the start of the downstroke, for the vertical plane that intercepts the hindwing at the mid-wing position when the wing is horizontal. The CFD and DPIV figures plot flow velocity vectors in a body-fixed reference frame and are colored according to the vertical downwash speed. For clarity, only every fifth vector is plotted in the DPIV figures. Overall, the numerical simulation captures the empirical structure of the flow field with remarkably high fidelity. This image relates to an article that appeared in the Sept. 18 issue of Science, published by AAAS. The study, by Dr. J. Young at University of New South Wales in Canberra, ACT, Australia, and colleagues, was titled, "Details of Insect Wing Design and Deformation Enhance Aerodynamic Function and Flight Efficiency." view more
Credit: [Image courtesy of Science/AAAS]