Optimal 2D Flapping Maneuvers for Efficient Hovering.

This study investigates optimal maneuvers for 2D bio-inspired flapping motion during hovering, beyond simple sinusoidal motion. We developed an efficient adjoint-based optimization algorithm to identify periodic flapping maneuvers that maximize time-averaged efficiency, where the efficiency is defined as the ratio of output power (lift) to input power (driving force). The analysis employs a 2D oscillating plate as the wing in Direct Numerical Simulation (DNS). We compare optimal flapping motions across different body weights, elucidating their associated flow characteristics and incorporating sensitivity information from the adjoint method.