Meeting Abstract

69.3  Jan. 7  Kinematics and muscle patterns during level turns in pigeons ROS, Ivo G.*; BIEWENER, Andrew A.; University of Groningen; Harvard University ivo.ros@gmail.com

Theoretically, maneuvering techniques in flapping flight can be far more variable than those of fixed wing fliers. To extend the current understanding of aerial turning, low speed 90 degrees horizontal turns of Columba livia are investigated. The length changes and activation patterns were recorded in vivo in the pectoralis pars sterno- and thoracobrachialis, biceps brachii, humerotriceps and extensor metacarpi muscles together with whole body kinematics, to gain insight in the dynamics involved. Special attention is paid to the mechanisms by which the rock pigeons change their center of mass trajectory and their orientation. It appears that the turns are executed using banking to redirect the resultant aerodynamic force. Mechanisms to incur the roll required for banking are contralateral asymmetries in aerodynamic forces, in added mass and in angular momentum. Pitch and roll appear to be coupled. Maneuvering with flapping wings thus is more variable indeed compared to flight where lift and thrust production are decoupled.