New research on the optimization of group flights offers interesting insights into energy efficiency. A research team from the Rowland Institute at Harvard University has discovered that emulating the “V” shape formation of migratory birds can lead to increased flight efficiency for unmanned aerial vehicles, such as drones.
Previous studies on group flight optimization mainly focused on aircraft with streamlined wings, where lift is generated by the shape of the wings. Less is known about the parts of aircraft that do not generate lift, such as the bodies of small rotorcraft, which are becoming increasingly important in both the industrial and military sectors.
In their experiments, the team utilized water tunnels and cylinders to simulate the flight of vehicles. They used a technique called “particles-image velocimetry” to measure the flow field around each object. High-performance imaging captured how different formations influenced the drag on each object.
The results of the study showed that the “V” formation contributed to a 45% reduction in drag for the second rank members behind the leader, and the leader also experienced some benefits from reduced drag. However, these benefits diminished as the angle of the “V” shape increased.
The researchers note that optimization may vary depending on individual needs and parameters. There are many ways to optimize, but it depends on the desired goal. Do we want all members of the group to consume the same amount of energy from point A to point B? If so, we must find a way to change the positions of the members during the flight.
The concept of emulating the organization of migratory bird flights has applications not only in aviation but also in other fields. For example, it can be applied to the design of underwater vehicles as well as vegetation organization for flood control.
The ultimate goal of these studies is to reduce energy consumption and transition to electrification, which will contribute to decarbonization. Nature provides us with many clues on how to achieve this, as many animals benefit from moving in groups.
The insights from these studies can assist scientists and engineers in designing more efficient and energy-saving aviation systems, as well as help reduce the environmental impact of transportation and other industries.
FAQ: Optimization of Group Flights
1. What is the discovery related to the optimization of group flights?
– New research has shown that emulating the “V” formation of migratory bird flights can increase the efficiency of unmanned aerial vehicles, such as drones.
2. What types of aircraft were studied in the context of group flight optimization?
– The research mainly focused on aircraft with streamlined wings, but the bodies of small rotorcraft are also playing a growing role.
3. How were the experiments conducted by the research team?
– The team utilized water tunnels and cylinders to simulate the flight of vehicles. They used a technique called “particles-image velocimetry” to measure the flow field around each object.
4. What were the results of the study?
– The “V” formation contributed to a 45% reduction in drag for the second rank members behind the leader. The leader also experienced some benefits from reduced drag.
5. Are there other methods for optimizing group flights?
– Yes, there are many optimization methods that depend on the desired goal. For example, if we want all members of the group to consume the same amount of energy, we need to find a way to change the positions of the members during the flight.
6. In what other fields can the concept of emulating migratory bird flight organization be applied?
– This concept can be applied to the design of underwater vehicles as well as vegetation organization for flood control.
7. What is the ultimate goal of research related to the optimization of group flights?
– The ultimate goal is to reduce energy consumption and transition to electrification, which will contribute to decarbonization. Nature provides many clues on how to achieve this, as many animals benefit from moving in groups.
8. How can the insights from these studies help reduce the environmental impact of transportation and industry?
– They can assist scientists and engineers in designing more efficient and energy-saving aviation systems, as well as help reduce the environmental impact of transportation and other industries.
Definitions:
– Optimization of Group Flights: The process of adjusting the formation and positions of aircraft in group flight to increase efficiency and energy effectiveness.
– Unmanned Aerial Vehicles: Aircraft capable of flying without a crew onboard, such as drones.
– Streamlined Wing: A wing that generates lift due to its shape, contributing to keeping the aircraft airborne.
– Bodies of Small Rotorcraft: Parts of aircraft that do not generate lift, often used in small rotorcraft.
– Emulating the “V” Shape Formation: Imitating the formation of migratory bird flights, where group members arrange themselves in a “V” shape, resulting in reduced drag and increased flight efficiency.
– Particles-Image Velocimetry: A measurement technique that records and analyzes images of particles to measure the flow field around objects.
Suggested Related Links:
– Harvard University
– Rowland Institute at Harvard University
The source of the article is from the blog publicsectortravel.org.uk