Evaluating the Hydrodynamic Performance of Macon, Big, and Fat Blades During the Drive Phase in Rowing
摘要
The performance of the rowing blade significantly influences propulsion efficiency in rowing. This study aims to investigate the fluid flow on the shapes of the existing blades and the corresponding hydrodynamic forces generated in the drive phase at the beginning of the competition. The study used computational fluid dynamics (CFD) with Star CCM+ software. The simulation was based on established experimental data, with boundary conditions reflecting real rowing tank conditions. Results revealed distinct variations in fluid flow patterns and force distributions across the blade surfaces. The highest hydrodynamic force happens to the Fat blade due to the largest blade’s surface area, resulting in enhanced performance compared to the other two blade designs. The analysis demonstrated a correlation between blade aspect ratio and hydrodynamic efficiency, indicating that blades with higher aspect ratios tended to generate greater thrust. In conclusion, the study highlights the importance of optimizing blade shape for improved rowing efficiency. These findings can inform future designs of rowing blades, contributing to advancements in competitive rowing technology and athlete performance.