Aerodynamics of bobsleigh
Aerodynamics plays an important rule in high-speed sports. This is especially true for bobsleigh and it experiences the average speed of around 130 km/h.
The position of crew ant their head positions are need to be streamlined in order to reduce the aerodynamic drag.
Objectives:
- Understanding the aerodynamic behavior of the bobsled and the crews.
- Determine the drag reduction methodology.
- Optimise the crew positions for minimizing the drag.
Plan:
The research will be carried out experimentally using RMIT industrial wind tunnel. However, attempts will be made to understand the aerodynamics behavior by using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling.
A scale model of crews will be designed and manufactured. The model bobsleighs and crews will be tested in the wind tunnel.
The test will be comprised of:
- Speeds (40 km/h to 130 km/h) with increment of 10 km/h (to understand the Reynolds number behavior).
- Crosswind effects (yaw angles) plus and minus 15 degree with increment of 5 degrees.
- Flow visualisation using smoke and wool taft.
- CAD model development and CFD modeling.
Aerodynamics of bobsleigh
Introduction/background
- Explains the research problem and its context
- Explains importance of the problem (Why does it matter?) Gives the background literature and critics it
- Shows gap in knowledge (Why is more information needed, thus explains reasons for the work?)
Objectives and Scope
- Explains goals for study (what you plan to do)
- Explains scope (limitations of the research - what you plan to do and what not to do)