Aerodynamic reduced-order Volterra model of an ornithopter under high-amplitude flapping

The unsteady aerodynamics of flapping low-aspect-ratio ellipsoidal-wings in ornithopters is analyzed and modeled by the use three dimensional Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations. range interest high amplitude, moderate frequency flapping, low to angles attack at Reynolds around 105, where autonomous like GRIFFIN are able perform complex maneuvers such as perching. results obtained show that Leading Edge Vortex produced above a certain Strouhal angle downstroke. response aerodynamic loads compared with classical analytical models, observing models based on absence viscosity small perturbations not appropriate for interest. Through 3D CFD database, finite memory Volterra model identified order predict characteristics forces moments wing. A good agreement simulations has been found considering reduced-order depending effective surrogate airfoil located 70% semi-span three-quarters chord airfoil, literature. Finally, methodology validation high-accuracy Motion Capture System without need wind tunnel proposed. As result proposed provides better estimates than ones.