Propulsive performance of two- and three-dimensional flapping flexible plates

The propulsive performance of two- and three-dimensional (2D and 3D) flapping flexible plates in a fluid at rest is investigated by a finite element method for the plate motion and an immersed boundary-lattice Boltzmann method for the fluid flow. We consider a model that as the leading-edge of the plate takes a vertical oscillation, the entire plate moves freely due to the fluid–structure interaction. The effects of flexibility on the dynamics of the 2D and 3D flapping plates are investigated. It is found that a suitable flexibility is benefit for improving the propulsive performance. The results obtained in this study provide physical insight into the understanding of the dynamics of the flapping-based locomotion.