Aerodynamic Drag Reduction on Speed Skating Helmet by Surface Structures

The aerodynamic drag for speed skating helmets with surface structures was investigated in this work by using numerical and experimental methods. Computational fluid dynamic (CFD) research performed to analyze the detail of flow field around helmets. simplified helmet models, riblet bump structures, were analyzed CFD simulations. pressure distribution velocity obtained through analysis. results showed that boundary layer separation position obviously delayed, changed a higher value at back area structured Therefore, lower than original model. According results, three types helmets, structure printed on flexible film, tested wind tunnel. A full-scaled skater mannequin half body used experiment simulate actual process. Compared helmet, reduction rate 7% achieved middle region tunnel experiment, average competitions skaters.