Featured Research
Shark Skin Bristling as a Passive Flow-Actuated Separation Control Mechanism
Biological Studies on the Short-fin mako shark have shown that it is capable of sprinting at speeds up to 60 mph , making it one of the fastest fish in the sea. Additional observations have also shown that in certain areas on the shark's body, the scales can bristle by as much as 50 degrees. Interestingly, these locations correspond to areas of flow separation during high speed swimming. Dr. Lang's current hypothesis is that the reversing flow in the boundary layer at these points induces scale bristling and impedes flow separation. Experiments performed on real mako shark skin in UA's Low-Speed Water Tunnel thus far have agreed with this conclusion.With the funding of the DOD and Boeing, work is now underway to adapt shark skin flow separation control for aerodynamic applications.
|
|
Butterfly Scale Micro-geometry for Favorable Surface Drag Modification and Vortex Control
Observations of Monarch Butterfly scales have shown a distinct pattern of embedded cavities. It is believed that the scales and their unique shape decrease drag and increase flight efficiency of the butterfly. The Bio-Flow Lab's research has shown to be due to a roller bearing effect caused by air re circulation in each of theses cavities. Previous and ongoing tests on live butterflies have supported this hypothesis.
|
|