4 ms·
In theory ornithopters are more efficient that quadcopters, since you are moving more air (momentum) at a lower delta-v (energy). In practice a lot depends on t
by perilunar 3y ago
In theory ornithopters are more efficient that quadcopters, since you are moving more air (momentum) at a lower delta-v (energy). In practice a lot depends on the efficiency of the drive train.
- acyou 3y agoCare to elaborate?
- perilunar 3y agoLift is caused by the change in momentum of the air deflected by the wing, and is proportional to the velocity, while the energy required to move the air is proportional to the square of the velocity. For a given amount of lift, a larger wing moves more air, but gives it a smaller change in velocity, so requires less energy. i.e. large slow wings are more efficient than small, fast wings; large slow propellors are more efficient than small, fast propellors. Two large flapping wings are more efficient than four small, fast propellers.
- a_gnostic 3y agoA.k.a. the Bernoulli Principle