Wind induced deformation and vibration of a Platanus acerifolia leaf

Deformation and vibration of twig-connected single leaf in wind is investigated experimentally. Results show that the Reynolds number based on wind speed and length of leaf blade is a key parameter to the aerodynamic problem. In case the front surface facing the wind and with an increase of Reynolds number, the leaf experiences static deformation, large amplitude and low frequency sway, reconfiguration to delta wing shape, flapping of tips, high frequency vibration of whole leaf blade, recovery of delta wing shape, and twig-leaf coupling vibration. Abrupt changes from one state to another occur at critical Reynolds numbers. In case the back surface facing the wind, the large amplitude and low frequency sway does not occur, the recovered delta wing shape is replaced by a conic shape, and the critical Reynolds numbers of vibrations are higher than the ones corresponding to the case with the front surface facing the wind. A pair of ram-horn vortex is observed behind the delta wing shaped leaf. A single vortex is found downstream of the conic shaped leaf. A lift is induced by the vortex, and this lift helps leaf to adjust position and posture, stabilize blade distortion and reduce drag and vibration.