A shape simplification modeling of the cambering in insect’s flapping wings using beam and shell

Abstract

In this study, a shape simplification modeling of insect flapping wings is proposed in order to reveal the mechanical roles of the veins in their cambering, since it seems to be unclear how the elastic deformation of insect wings caused by the aerodynamic force results in their camber. In the proposed modeling, the veins are divided into the areas according to their functions, and the macroscopic constitutive relationship in each area is described using the corresponding beam. Furthermore, the wing membrane supported by the veins is described using a rectangular shell. The aerodynamic pressure dominant in the cambering is considered in the static deformation of the model wing. The finite element analysis taking into account the geometric nonlinearity is applied to the proposed model with the setup consistent with the actual insect. As the result, the mechanical roles of the veins in the cambering of insect flapping wings are revealed.