Printing a XNUMXD model inspired by shark scales has led to new discoveries about their aerodynamic properties. In addition, it was found that the implementation of scale-like structures on a wing improves the aerodynamics of the wing in a way that may lead to the development of a new generation of airplanes, drones, cars and turbines.
By: Amir Gildor
A new study conducted by a team of engineers and biologists from Harvard University and the University of South Carolina in the United States examined the aerodynamic properties of shark scales. First, the researchers built a 3D model of the scales of a blue tip shark, known as one of the fastest sharks in the world. They did this using an imaging method using X-rays (micro CT) - a method often used for accurate imaging of tiny animal structures.
Next, the 3D model of the scales was embedded on top of an existing model of a wing, and then several such 'upgraded' wings were printed using a 3D printer. In the next step, the aerodynamic properties of the printed wings were tested, inside a water tank.
It is known that the unique structure of the shark's scales contributes to reducing drag (the force that opposes the movement of a body moving in a liquid or gas), but the researchers were surprised to discover that this was not enough - it turned out that the scales also contributed to increasing the lifting force of the wings, the force that allows bodies heavier than air to fly.
After examining the results of the experiment, the researchers compared the shark's scales to 'vortex generators' - structures that are installed on most planes and cars and help to change the air flow above the vehicle to improve its aerodynamics. It was found that adding the 'scales' to the wing in 3D printing achieves an improvement of up to three hundred and twenty percent in the ratio between the drag force and the lift force, compared to wings that do not include vortex generators.
In this study, therefore, aerodynamic properties of the shark's scales were discovered that were not known until now, and it was also found that mounting their model on top of an existing vessel may significantly improve its aerodynamics. In light of the findings, it is possible that in the future structures similar to shark scales will be incorporated into aircraft, cars and turbines.
