Virtual Aerodynamic Testing Model Using 3D Mesh Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional aerodynamic testing for athletes is limited by the high cost and inefficiency of wind tunnel testing, which restricts the ability to make real-time changes and evaluate their configurations effectively.
Innovation Solution
Development of a virtual testing model using a computer-generated 3D mesh adapted with point cloud data from imaging techniques like laser scanning or stereo vision, allowing for real-time creation of a subject-specific model for simulated aerodynamic testing, including motion capture and dynamic evaluation of changes in clothing and equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If wind tunnel testing is used for aerodynamic testing, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time and productivity deteriorate due to expensive and limited testing opportunities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the athlete using 3D scanning and mesh adaptation techniques. The virtual model replicates the athlete's geometry and can be used for repeated aerodynamic testing without consuming physical wind tunnel time, thereby resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and time availability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary 3D scanning and virtual model creation before wind tunnel testing. This preliminary action allows multiple virtual iterations and evaluations to be completed beforehand, reducing the need for repeated expensive wind tunnel sessions and improving time efficiency.
2Measurement precision
If wind tunnel testing is used for aerodynamic testing, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to high cost and limited testing sessions
Solution Approach 1:
The virtual model copy enables unlimited repetitions of aerodynamic testing and configuration evaluation without additional wind tunnel costs. Multiple configurations can be tested virtually in parallel, dramatically improving productivity while maintaining measurement precision through validated virtual wind tunnel simulations.
Solution Approach 2:
The virtual testing system serves multiple functions: it can evaluate different athlete positions, clothing configurations, equipment choices, and environmental conditions all within the same platform. This multi-functionality increases productivity by eliminating the need for separate physical testing sessions for each configuration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If real-time changes are made to configuration during wind tunnel testing, then adaptability is improved, but loss of time increases due to the difficulty of making and evaluating changes
Solution Approach 1:
The virtual model system allows dynamic, real-time modification of configuration parameters such as body position, clothing, and equipment. These changes can be made and evaluated instantly without the setup time required for physical wind tunnel testing, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The virtual copy enables rapid iteration of configuration changes. Athletes and coaches can modify parameters in the virtual model and immediately see the aerodynamic impact, allowing for adaptive optimization without the time-consuming process of physical reconfiguration and retesting.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables cost-effective and efficient aerodynamic testing by creating a detailed, accurate virtual model that can simulate real-time changes, reducing processing time from hours to minutes, and providing meaningful results without the need for lengthy wind tunnel sessions.
Implementation Method 1
imaging the subject to develop point cloud data representing at least the subject's outer surface
Implementation Method 2
using at least one of laser scanning, stereo vision, and optical high resolution 3D scanning techniques
Data Source
AI summary
A method for developing a virtual testing model of a subject for use in simulated aerodynamic testing comprises providing a computer generated generic 3D mesh of the subject, identifying a dimension of the subject and at least one reference point on the subject, imaging the subject to develop point cloud data representing at least the subject's outer surface and adapting the generic 3D mesh to the subject. The generic 3D mesh is adapted by modifying it to have a corresponding dimension and at least one corresponding reference point, and applying at least a portion of the point cloud data from the imaged subject's outer surface at selected locations to scale the generic 3D mesh to correspond to the subject, thereby developing the virtual testing model specific to the subject.