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dc.contributor.advisorBittle, Robert
dc.contributor.authorDavis, Michael
dc.date2016-05-19
dc.date.accessioned2016-09-14T15:32:38Z
dc.date.available2016-09-14T15:32:38Z
dc.date.issued2016
dc.identifier.urihttps://repository.tcu.edu/handle/116099117/11418
dc.description.abstractThis report describes each step of the parametric study conducted on various fabrics to minimize the drag force experienced by a sprinter. This study includes wind tunnel testing to characterize the aerodynamics drag of each tested fabric; the creation of a mathematical model of Usain Bolt sprinting his world record 100-meter time using cylindrical approximations for the parts of the body; and the application of the drag test data to the mathematical model to characterize the performance of each fabric should it be worn by a sprinter. The purpose of this study is to create the methodology that should be used to conduct similar drag optimization studies on a larger scale in the future. The wind tunnel testing provides drag measurement and the body analysis of Usain Bolt sprinting provides geometric, time and velocity data for his running type. The application of the data with the model yields the best and worst performance fabrics over various parts of his body. The result of this parametric study is reasonable, suggesting the tighter, thinner fabrics with slight surface imperfections provide the least drag force and highest performance, whereas the thicker, smoother, more porous fabrics in addition to the smooth test cylinder yield the highest drag force on a runner and the worst performance. The difference between the best and worst fabrics yields a significant difference in performance and consequentially the time it would take a runner to run a race. This study methodology would be applicable to larger scale studies introducing more complex models and more fabrics.
dc.titleA Parametric Study Evaluating Various Fabrics to Minimize Drag Effects on a Sprinter
etd.degree.departmentEngineering
local.collegeCollege of Science and Engineering
local.collegeJohn V. Roach Honors College
local.departmentEngineering


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