Speedo uses ANSYS tool for Fastskin Racing System
Simulation software from engineering company ANSYS was used to produce Speedo's new Fastskin Racing System.
In engineering the three components – the Fastskin suit, cap and goggles – Speedo’s Aqualab facility used data from more than 1,200 separate simulations conducted using ANSYS multiphysics software. By replicating the dynamic pressures of competitive swimming in a risk-free virtual design environment, these simulations helped engineers to minimise the effects of turbulence and drag, mitigate the impact force generated by a dive and maximise the structural strength of the goggle assembly.
According to UK-based Speedo, can reduce full-body passive drag by up to 16.6%, improve oxygen economy by up to 11% and reduce active body drag by up to 5.2%.
Following the design work, Speedo conducted a number of pool tests of the new racing system, using professional athletes including Natalie Coughlin, Ryan Lochte and Michael Phelps.
"Engineering simulation has been absolutely critical in launching this world-first concept," said Tom Waller, head of Aqualab. "For the first time, competitive swimmers can use a cohesive, hydrodynamic solution that will help them cut through the water with maximum efficiency.
"In developing the Fastskin Racing System, ANSYS software
gave us the confidence that our designs would perform as expected in the real
world — and saved us a huge amount of resources that we would otherwise have
had to invest in physical testing."
