Effect of second wing on the surface pressure of an MAV model

Abstract

Paper presented at the 9th International Conference on Heat Transfer, Fluid Mechanics and Thermodynamics, Malta, 16-18 July, 2012.

In this study surface pressure distribution over a Zimmerman type wing generally used for the MAV models in the presence of a second wing located on the top of the main wing was experimentally investigated. The model was tested in a low speed, low turbulence tunnel. Surface pressure data for various angles of attack and Reynolds numbers in the presence of the second wing is obtained. In addition, all data were repeated for the different locations, vertical and horizontal, positions of the second wing. The data are compared with those of the main wing alone. By comparing the surface pressure data for various cases one can clearly identify the best location, vertical and longitudinal, of the second wing. From the pressure data, it is seen that addition of the second wing affects the flow field over the main wing considerably. It increases the surface pressure distribution in front portion of the main wing, unfavourable effect, while it has a favourable effect in the rear portion of the wing.