The hydrodynamics of water-walking insects and spiders
Name
70784988-MIT.pdf
Description
Full printable version
Size
72.04 MB
Format
Adobe PDF
Checksum (MD5)
79cbfa148b19be0cf7bdaaae8332ad78
Author(s)
Hu, David L., 1979-
Advisor(s)
John W.M. Bush.
Date Issued
2006
Publisher
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Abstract
We present a combined experimental and theoretical investigation of the numerous hydrodynamic propulsion mechanisms employed by water-walking arthropods (insects and spiders). In our experimental study, high speed cinematography and flow visualization techniques are used to determine the form of the flows generated by water-walkers. In our supporting theoretical study we provide a formal fluid mechanical description of their locomotion. We focus on the most common means of walking on water such as the alternating tripod gait, rowing, galloping and leaping. We also examine quasi-static modes of propulsion in which the insect's legs are kept stationary: specifically, Marangoni propulsion and meniscus-climbing. Special attention is given to rationalizing the propulsion mechanisms of water-walking insects through consideration of the transfer of forces, momentum and energy between the creature and its environment.
Description
Thesis (Ph. D.)--Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Dept. of Mathematics, 2006.
This electronic version was submitted by the student author. The certified thesis is available in the Institute Archives and Special Collections.
Includes bibliographical references (leaves 142-152).
Subjects
Mathematics.
MIT Department
Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Department of Mathematics
Terms of Use
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