Sport aerodynamics
In high velocity sports, aerodynamic drag is often the major resistance source. The wind tunnel can help athletes, teams and sport equipment manufacturer to improve the performances reducing the drag. The GVPM aeronautical test section dimensions allows to test athletes of various disciplines with their race equipment.
Specific testing devices have been developed to measure aerodynamic forces on various sport disciplines using a high accuracy force balance and a set of cameras to record videos of the tests. A real-time feedback monitor shows to the athlete instantaneous measurements data and videos together with a reference position overlay to maintain constant positions. A special bike support allows the athlete to test simulating the real pedaling effort having both the wheels spinning.
Several issues can be investigated and optimized like position, aerodynamic design of the accessories and fitting and surface properties of the garments.
Sport disciplines:
- Cycling
- Alpine skiing
- Ski jumping
- Speed skating
- Bobsleigh
- Luge
- Skeleton
- Snowboarding
Smoke flow visualization on Michael Rogers's helmet.
Elia Viviani testing different suits and fabrics.
The luger Armin Zoeggler.
Testing of alpine ski suits on a full scale mannequin.
