A Comparison of the Wake Structures of Scale and Full-scale Pedalling Cycling Models

T. N. Crouch, D. Burton, J. A. Venning, M. C. Thompson, N. A. T. Brown, J. Sheridan

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleResearchpeer-review

7 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

This paper presents a novel approach to better understand the unsteady aerodynamics associated with a dynamically pedalling cyclist. Using high resolution Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) in a water channel, the large-scale wake structure is analysed for various phases of the crank cycle of a 1:4.5 scale-model cyclist/bicycle under both static and pedalling conditions. Both quasi-steady and dynamic pedalling leg results are compared with detailed velocity field surveys made in the wake of a full-scale pedalling cyclist mannequin of similar geometry and position in a wind tunnel. A time-averaged and phase-averaged analysis of the various flow regimes that occur throughout the pedal stroke shows good agreement between scale-model and full-scale mannequin investigations. This highlights the robustness of the formation of the primary wake flow structures when subjected to varying Reynolds number, bicycle/rider geometry and quasi-steady/dynamic pedalling conditions.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)13-19
Number of pages7
JournalProcedia Engineering
Volume147
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2016

Keywords

  • Aerodynamics
  • bluff-body
  • cycling
  • sports
  • vortex flows
  • wake structure

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