Simulation analysis of paddling motions in a single kayak: Development of a comprehensive dynamic model of a paddler, paddle and hull

Abstract

The objective of this study was to develop a comprehensive dynamic model of the paddler, paddle and hull for a simulation analysis of the paddling motion in a single kayak. In the development of the model, a similar simulation model, not for the kayak, but for human swimming, was utilized. The paddler was represented as a series of 21 truncated elliptic cones. The paddle was represented as three truncated elliptic cones for the two blades and shaft. For the hull, an extension of the original simulation model to represent the detailed three-dimensional hull shape was carried out. In the extended hull model, the thin elliptic plate was replaced by a plate with a detailed cross-sectional shape. The paddler, paddle and hull in the model were connected by means of virtual springs and dampers. The geometries of the paddler, paddle and hull were acquired based on the experiments that measured them. The joint motion of the paddler was measured by means of motion analysis as well. By inputting the acquired data, simulation of the paddling motion was conducted. From the results, it was confirmed that the joint motion acquired in the experiment was successfully input into the simulation. It was also confirmed that the paddler, paddle and the hull were successfully connected by the virtual springs and dampers. In the simulation, the averaged velocity of the hull in the propulsive direction was 3.40 m/s, which was 11% lower than the actual value of 3.8 m/s.

Smart sensors for estimation of power interaction of an athlete with water surface when paddling in the cycle of rowing locomotions

“…It is worth noting that the presented calculation is valid only within the established by us limits relative to force vectors 𝐹 and 𝑅 orientation Eqs. (16)(17)(18)(19): The resultant action on the paddle under the conditions in question can be determined based on the rules of vector addition Eq. ( 20):…”

“…Improvement of the training process of rowers can be carried out based on the data of rowing technique simulation, which will allow to identify the fundamental factors ensuring performance efficiency of motor actions of an athlete, describe their interaction at change of different parameters (change of the material composition and paddle design to alter its resonance characteristics, design of the boat bottom in order to increase its stability and specific speed, etc.) [14][15][16][17][18][19]. However, determination of the dynamic structure of rowing locomotions in the natural control medium is still not a fully solved task.…”

A New Measurement System for Performance Analysis in Flatwater Sprint Kayaking

“…Therefore, he requires a DAQ (Digital Acquisition) system that allows the simultaneous measurement of the kinematics of the boat together with all the forces involved in the propulsion of the kayak: The forces exerted by the upper body musculature of the kayaker on the paddle and those applied by his legs on the footrest. In recent years, several simulation models [7][8][9][10][11][12][13], as well as electronic measurement systems specially designed for sprint kayaking [14][15][16][17][18][19][20][21], have been proposed in literature, or they are available on the market. Some of the measurement systems allow for the study of the force-time curves performed in laboratories on ergometers (non-specific conditions) or in specific race conditions (on water).…”

The Technical Parameters of the Creation Process for Kayak Paddles as a Sport Product

“…The authors investigate the characteristics of this commonly occurring phenomenon and validate the techniques used in the modelling studies (10). M. Nakashima et al (2014) developed a comprehensive dynamic model of the paddle, paddle and hull for a simulation analysis of the paddling motion in a single kayak (11).…”

“…According to Trabal (2008), sport and science share the same ideal: to continually transcend the limits of the human being. Most research analyzing problems of kayak paddle appliance in rowing sport is concentrating to hydrodynamic, technical solutions, their modeling (1,2,7,11) . Banks et al (2013) empathized the significance of kayak paddle design in sprint event.…”