A NEW MODEL OF THE SPRINGBOARD IN DIVING

Abstract

This paper presents a model which describes the vertical, horizontal and rotational movement of a diving springboard. Model parameters were determined from experimental data. The springboard model was used in conjunction with a diver model to simulate a diving takeoff. Diving performance of an elite female diver was recorded at 200 Hz and was digitised to obtain kinematic data used to drive the simulation. There was good agreement in terms ot linear and angular takeoff conditions between the performance and the simulation. It is concluded that the proposed model is an improved representation of the springboard as a simple mass-spring system. This model will be used in conjunction with a diver model to investigate takeoff techniques and optimise diving performance.