Three-Dimensional CFD Hydrodynamics Drag Force Analysis of the Swimmer Body

The aim of this study was to analyze the hydrodynamic characteristics of a realistic model of an elite swimmer body/body using three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics techniques. A three-dimensional domain was designed to simulate the fluid flow around a swimmer body and body model in different orientations (0°, 45°, and 90° for the three axes Ox, Oy and Oz). The body/body model was obtained through computerized tomography scans. Steady-state analyses were performed using the commercial code Fluent. The drag coefficient presented higher values than the lift coefficient for all model orientations. The drag coefficient of the body/body model increased with the angle of attack, with the maximum value of the force coefficient corresponding to an angle of attack of 90°. The drag coefficient obtained the highest value at an orientation of the body plane in which the model was directly perpendicular to the direction of the flow. An important contribution of the lift coefficient was observed at an angle of attack of 45°, which could have an important role in the overall propulsive force production of the body and body in swimming phases, when the angle of attack is near 45°.

Keywords:

computational fluid dynamics , aquatics , forces , drag , lift