Design and development of test methodology for measuring hydrodynamic drag on fabric

Abstract

In competitive swimming, minimizing drag is crucial for achieving optimal speed, and swimwear manufacturers aim to differentiate themselves through fabrics that reduce this resistance. However, a standardized method for drag measurement is yet to be established, and existing techniques have limitations including measurement errors, subjective outcomes, feasibility constraints, costly setups, and accuracy limitations. This study aims to introduce a novel solution by combining two existing drag-measuring techniques: computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and passive towing. To design and develop a test methodology to measure the drag force. The study determined the highest-drag mannequin shape and develops a testing equipment to facilitate passive towing experiments. The developed system measures the drag using a range of fabrics to assess their hydrodynamic properties. The resulting data were analyzed comprehensively through ANOVA statistical analysis, and it demonstrates the impact of fabric surface properties and fabric design on swimmer performance, emphasizing the key role of engineering textile in the sport industry.