Rowing propulsive mechanism based on rower biomechanics and blade hydrodynamics

Abstract

Rower biomechanics, stroke style, and hydrodynamic of the blade are among the important factors which influence rowing performance. Deeper understanding of these aspects will help the rower and rowing fraternity to decide the best rowing style and blade model in order to perform better. There are three objectives outlined in this study. The first objective was to evaluate the coupling mechanism between rower biomechanics and blade hydrodynamic, using rowing dynamic simulator. The second objective was to assess the fluid flow behaviour around the blade by using Computational Fluid Dynamic method (CFD). The third objective was to compare two different stroke styles which focused on the rower leg and trunk. During the experimental work, the rowers rowed and accelerated the boat. An average handle force of 512 N, and a blade hydrodynamic force of 231 N were obtained by using the strain gauge sensor. From the result, the oar mechanism was in agreement with the first class lever of 45% mechanical advantage. CFD analysis was validated and had good agreement with experimental result with 8.3% error. Blade was identified to work based on drag-induced propulsive and the fluid flow behaviour was dominated by leading edge vortex (LEV). The highest hydrodynamic force was generated by asymmetrical type of Fat blade followed by asymmetrical type of Big blade and symmetrical type of Macon blade with a peak force of 347 N, 307 N and 231 N respectively. Finally, two types of rowing style emphasized on the leg and trunk were compared and evaluated. The leg-typed rowing style was 17% better in increasing the handle force higher as compared to the trunk-typed rowing style. In conclusion, the study explored the connection between rower-oar-boat. Rowing performance showed a 28% enhancement of boat acceleration by the use of leg-type rowing style. Further enhancement of performance was achieved via the asymmetrical type of Fat blade, which increased the hydrodynamic force up to 51%.