MORPHOLOGY OF INSECT WINGS AND AIRFLOWS PRODUCED BY FLAPPING INSECTS

摘要

This paper describes results of some kinds of experiment for wing morphology and flight performance of some flying insects; cicada, dragonfly and gadfly. Firstly, wing structures of these insects were measured down to minutest details by a three-dimensional curved shape measuring system. Surface shapes of the insect wings were showed by distinct three-dimensional image. From the three-dimensional images, correlation coefficients by comparison of distribution of undulation on the wings were calculated. The surface shapes and the correlation coefficients showed difference of functions for flapping flight between each wing. Secondary, distribution of velocity fields around a flapping cicada and a flapping dragonfly were visualized by a PIV system to identify the airflow generated by the wings. The distribution of velocity vectors for one stroke of dragonfly wing is clarified in the paper. Moreover, difference of flow around wings between a dragonfly and cicada were revealed. The flapping forewing of dragonfly was carrying out important motion for a highly efficient flight.