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Software from ANSYS played a critical role in the development of the suit. The technology was used to predict fluid flows around the body of an elite swimmer in the outstretched glide position (assumed immediately after the initial dive and following each lap's turn off the pool wall) to identify areas where drag, and its slowing effect, is likely to occur. In addition, the simulation analysis guided placement of specially designed drag-reducing Speedo LZR RACER panels to minimize this negative effect. Simulations then were run to confirm the Speedo LZR RACER suit was effective in reducing drag and enabling athletes wearing the suit to swim faster than ever before.
"While never forgetting the endless dedication and spirit of world-class athletes who continually hit new heights, we are thrilled with the success to date of the Speedo LZR RACER suit. This is clear evidence of the power of applying advanced engineering simulation technology to optimize all of the design metrics of a product. The groundbreaking innovation represented by the design of the Speedo LZR RACER suit could not have been achieved without the depth and breadth of technology from ANSYS," said Jim Cashman, president and CEO of ANSYS, Inc. "From the ANSYS perspective, we're finding that there really are no barriers to the potential applications and industries in which our software can be crucial to competitive advantage."
"Speedo is a world-class brand dedicated to continual innovation and working with the best, which makes ANSYS a perfect partner for us. The use of ANSYS software was an integral part of our design and development process, which, alongside with our other key partners, resulted in the development of the world's fastest swimsuit, the Speedo LZR RACER," said Jason Rance, head of Speedo's Aqualab research and development group.
ANSYS worked with Dr. Herve Morvan of Nottingham University and Optimal Solutions in conducting the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) research used to develop the Speedo LZR RACER suit. Speedo has long been recognized as the world's leading swimwear brand.
About Speedo
Synonymous with swimwear, the iconic brand celebrates 80 years of dominance creating revolutionary new technologies, designs and innovations. In the 1920s Speedo® made history with the Racerback: the world's first non-wool suit. In 2008 Speedo redefines swimwear again with Fastskin® LZR RACER® - the fastest and most technologically advanced swimsuit ever created; meanwhile designer collaborations with Comme des Garçons put Speedo at the cutting edge of design. As the world's leading swimwear brand, Speedo is passionate about life in and around the water, supporting swimming from beginners through to elite level, including the phenomenal Michael Phelps. Speedo is owned by Pentland Brands and distributed in over 170 countries around the world. SPEEDO, the ARROW device, LZR PULSE and LZR RACER are registered trade marks of Speedo Holdings B.V. The LZR RACER suit has worldwide design rights and patents pending.
About ANSYS, Inc.
ANSYS, Inc., founded in 1970, develops and globally markets engineering simulation software and technologies widely used by engineers and designers across a broad spectrum of industries. The Company focuses on the development of open and flexible solutions that enable users to analyze designs directly on the desktop, providing a common platform for fast, efficient and cost-conscious product development, from design concept to final-stage testing and validation. The Company and its global network of channel partners provide sales, support and training for customers. Headquartered in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, U.S.A., with more than 40 strategic sales locations throughout the world, ANSYS, Inc. and its subsidiaries employ approximately 1,400 people and distribute ANSYS products through a network of channel partners in over 40 countries.
Software from ANSYS played a critical role in the development of the Speedo LZR RACER suit. Image courtesy of ANSYS, Inc.
Surface shear stress contours; red shading indicates areas of drag hot spots. Image courtesy of ANSYS, Inc.
CFD technology from ANSYS was used to predict fluid flows around the body of an elite swimmer in the outstretched glide position (assumed immediately after the initial dive and following each lap’s turn off the pool wall) to identify areas where drag, and its slowing effect, is likely to occur. The images shows flow pathlines colored by local flow velocity. Image courtesy of ANSYS, Inc.
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