title: An experimental determination of the drag coefficient of a Mens 8+ racing shell.
abstract: This study centered around an experimental analysis of a Mens Lightweight Eight racing shell and, specifically, determining an approximation for the drag coefficient. A testing procedure was employed that used a Global Positioning System (GPS) unit in order to determine the acceleration and drag force on the shell, and through calculations yield a drag coefficient. The testing was run over several days in numerous conditions, and a 95% confidence interval was established to capture the results. The results obtained, over these varying trials, maintained a successful level of consistency. The significance of this study transcends the determination an approximation for the drag coefficient of the racing shell; it defined a successful means of quantifying performance of the shell itself. The testing procedures outlined in the study represent a uniform means of evaluating the factors that influence drag on the shell, and thus influence speed.
authors.affiliation: Spencer Laboratory, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19711 USA.
authors.forename: James G
authors.initials: JG
authors.lastname: Buckmann
authors.affiliation: Spencer Laboratory, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19711 USA.
authors.forename: Samuel D
authors.initials: SD
authors.lastname: Harris
keywords: Aerodynamic; Boat; Crew; Drag; Force; Hydrodynamic; Racing; Rowing; Shell