Tech Report CS-02-16

Simulation and Visualization of Air Flow Around Bat Wings During Flight

Rachel Weinstein, Igor Pivkin, Sharon Swartz, David Laidlaw, George Karniadakis, and Kenneth Breuer

2002

Abstract:

We present a method for simulating and visualizing air flow around a static bat (order Chiroptera) wing geometry. This demonstration serves as proof-of-concept for simulating and visualizing air flow around a time-varying geometry in order to understand the aerodynamic principles behind bat flight. By understanding the mechanics of bat flight, we hope to make discoveries in areas such as biomechanics, aerodynamics, and evolutionary biology.

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