Abstract
Experimental studies of the aerodynamic characteristics of insect wing gliders have been performed. In the first place, the curved surfaces of insect wings were measured with a three-dimensional curved shape measuring system. The experimental apparatus consisted of the light microscope system, laser displacement detector system, automatic scanning XY stage system and automatic focusing system. The surface roughness of insect wings can be measured with μ m order accuracy. In the next place, gliders were made using insect wings. Gliding performance of insect wing gliders was examined with a high speed video camera. The morphological and gliding characteristics were revealed for some insect wings.
