Abstract
A parametric study on the shapes of bobsleigh bumpers has been performed to reduce the aerodynamic drag. Effects of geometric parameters, such as leading angle of leading bumper, the ratio of minimum width to maximum width of leading bumper, the ratio of leading bumper length to trailing bumper length, trailing angle of trailing bumper, and the ratio of bumper height to installation location of bumper from the bottom of bobsleigh, on the aerodynamic performance of the bobsleigh were estimated using 3-D Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations. The turbulence was analyzed using the shear stress turbulence model. Reynolds number based on the hydraulic diameter of the external flow channel was in the range of 150,000~1,000,000. Numerical results for drag coefficient were validated compared to experimental data. Ranges of the five geometric parameters were determined according to the rule of Federation Internationale de Bobsleigh et de Tobaganning. The aerodynamic performance of the bobsleigh sled was most sensitive to the leading angle of leading bumper and the ratio of minimum width to maximum width of leading bumper.