Hi, I am working with CFD, but I am also interested in soccer, especially now during the World Cup. I wonder (of curiosity) if there exists any research (or work) with CFD and soccer? Regards, Ulf

Hello Ulf,

In the recent newsletter from FLUENT, they have reported some CFD work related to aerodynamics around a soccer ball.

Thanks,

Thomas

check out http://www.fluent.com/about/news/pr/pr43.htm

Yes, one recent Fluent News issue also contains a study on the airflow around an American football.

It would be interesting to know whether any CFD work been done for studying the aerodynamics around a cricket ball. Of particulat interest would be the explaination for the art of reverse swing. CFD should be able to explain whether such a thing happens due to some special physics or ball tampering.

Thanks,

Thomas

Likewise with golfballs: One manufacturer has recently opted for hexagonal dimples as opposed to the classic rounded ones. This improves trajectory and distance, allegedly.

Hexagonal dimples on golf balls first appeared 20 years ago. I have played both kinds, hexagonal and round. I have not noticed any difference in distance or trajectory, and I hit the ball fairly decent (250 - 300 yards off the tee). From a fluid dynamics viewpoint, I don't see why it should make any difference, either. One could equally play a ball without dimples that has a rough surface. The idea is to make the boundary layer turbulent. The only problem with rough golf balls is that dirt sticks to it, which makes the ball hard to clean. Also, a rough ball would be a drag, literally, on the putting green. The only difference in golf balls, as far as amateurs should be concerned, is the amount of compression. A harder ball flies slightly lower and farther but gives you less 'feel' on your short game.

Read book: J Wesson. The Science of Soccer http://bookmarkphysics.iop.org/bookpge.htm?book=1102p

Chapter 4. "The ball in flight" http://bookmarkphysics.iop.org/fullb...wessonch04.pdf

Interesting article by fluent, however, they have failed to take into account the football valve placement when kicking the ball and valve weight. This can amplify the bending of the ball during flight and dipping of the ball also. Clearly modelling this with CFD is not possible!