On theoretical modeling of aquatic and aerial animal locomotion

Abstract

This chapter discusses the theoretical modeling of aquatic and aerial animal locomotion, several objectives that are focused on exploring how, why, and under what premises such high efficiency and low-energy cost can be achieved in these diverse modes of locomotion as a result of a long history of convergent evolution. The chapter takes an integral viewpoint from the foundation built by the pioneering leaders in the field, such as Herbert Wagner, Theodore von Karman, William R. Sears, and Sir James Lighthill, followed by other researchers through developing various theoretical and experimental methods used in studies on the subject. In subdividing the various classes of hydrodynamic theories and the underlying physical conceptions, it is seen that the generalized slender-body theory is readily capable of expounding the complex interaction between the swimming body and the vortex sheets shed from the appended fins, caudal fins, or lunate tails. Some important nonlinear effects are considered, and separate resort is made for mechanophysiological studies on energetics and hydromechanics of fish propulsion involving the biochemical and mechanical conversions of energy.

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