OAR BLADE FORCE COEFFICIENTS AND A MATHEMATICAL MODEL OF ROWING
Keywords:
rowing, CFD, mathematical modelling, oar blade
Abstract
The aim of this study was to validate the use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to determine oar blade force coefficients for use in a mathematical model of rowing mechanics to predict the performance of a boat. Experimental and CFD derived lift and drag force coefficients for a Macon oar blade were taken from previously published research. Each set of coefficients was used to drive a mathematical model of rowing, and predicted instantaneous and mean steady state boat velocity compared. Instantaneous boat velocity was similar throughout the stroke and mean boat velocity varied by only 1.33%. In conclusion, this investigation has demonstrated that lift and drag coefficients obtained by computational methods may be used successfully to predict boat behaviour in a mathematical model of rowing. The use of computational data closely matches model outputs derived from experimental data.
Section
Applied Program
Authors can retain copyright, while granting the International Society of Biomechanics in Sports (ISBS) the right of first publication.