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An Inverse Problem Approach to Micro-PIV for Investigating Tiny Insect Flight Aerodynamics — NSF Award to University of South Flor

Tiny insects are surprisingly good flyers, but their aerodynamics are poorly understood because they are so small. Understanding their flight aerodynamics and abilities could lead to improved micro-aerial vehicle designs and new control strategies for agricultural pests. Measurements of the flow around flying tiny inse

Award titleAn Inverse Problem Approach to Micro-PIV for Investigating Tiny Insect Flight Aerodynamics
Award ID2548593
AwardeeUniversity of South Florida
CityTAMPA
StateFL
Amount obligated$550,000
Principal investigatorDavid Murphy
ProgramFD-Fluid Dynamics
Start date02/01/2026
AbstractTiny insects are surprisingly good flyers, but their aerodynamics are poorly understood because they are so small. Understanding their flight aerodynamics and abilities could lead to improved micro-aerial vehicle designs and new control strategies for agricultural pests. Measurements of the flow around flying tiny insects could help, but measurements are challenging because of the insects’ small size and because they beat their wings hundreds of times per second. This project will develop and va
SourceNSF Awards

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