What do a sheep and a bull have in common with a bicycle?
They, of course, refer to the shape of the handlebars, which resemble the horns of these animals. The question arises, which shape is more beneficial during the ride? I am testing the aerodynamic resistance of bicycle handlebars. Have you ever wondered while cycling, what to do to make it easier, more enjoyable, faster? Especially when going against the wind? This project is meant to answer this question.
How is your research going?
It involves studying the geometry of different bicycle handlebars. There are many variants of handlebar arrangements and types, and each has different aerodynamic properties. Add-ons, such as a bell or a phone holder, also have a significant impact on air resistance.
I started by learning about fluid aerodynamics and the functioning of wind tunnels. Along the way, I learned what scientific information gathering involves. I think this could be very useful in the future when writing an engineering thesis. Together with my mentor, we decided that the best way to determine which handlebar has the least aerodynamic resistance would be tests on specific models, conducted in the wind tunnel at the Institute of Flow Machines. I designed and produced the necessary components for the measuring station using 3D printing.
Thanks to funding from the E2Top program, I bought models of bicycle handlebars and started testing. The awareness that I can design using CAD tools and create new things gives great satisfaction and motivation for further work.
Who will benefit from these results?
The application of my research mainly concerns cycling, using a bicycle handlebar with the best aerodynamic properties helps achieve better results in this sport. But the effects will also be noticeable in recreation and amateur sports. Many people use a bicycle, and for some, it is a primary means of transport. A handlebar with low resistance can facilitate daily commutes or trips out of town.
Who is the mentor?
It is Michał Lipian, PhD who is an expert in the field of aerodynamics. His knowledge and experience have often helped me in developing the project, and our cooperation is going very well. I rate his help as indispensable.
What does participation in the E2Top program give you?
Scientific work develops, enriches, and above all, absorbs and engages. Participation in this program provides the opportunity to obtain an Individual Study Program, i.e., the selection of appropriate educational content, e.g., subjects. This allows me to develop in a direction strictly defined by me, learn what I want, while maintaining time that I can use for pleasure. Scientific work is something that allows me to go beyond the regular study program, which gives me more opportunities and makes learning a pleasure. It gives a lot of satisfaction and I wish this to every student.