Optimization of superelevation runoff model for cycling tracks

Abstract

To improve the possible superelevation runoff models for the cycling track design, at first, two existing representative superelevation runoff models used in China were investigated and fitted. Then, an optimization methodology was proposed, which was focused on the track geometry itself, without the consideration of the physical characteristic of the cyclist, assuming that less vertical curvature values correspond to less riding time. The riding performance formulae were obtained with the variables of riding time, riding velocity and vertical curvature of cycling track. Finally, with the refined adjustment on the vertical curvatures with the help of cycling track design software and considering the effect of horizontal alignments, the optimized models were finalized. It is clearly seen that these optimized models take the form of quartic parabola and are verified to achieve 0.005–0.021 s improvement in the event of 200 m time trial.

Keywords

cycling track / superelevation runoff / optimization design / track geometry

References

[1] Union Cycliste Internationale. UCI cycling regulations part III: Tack races [M]. 2010: 73–78.

[2] Arahan Teknik (Jalan). A guide to the design of cycle track [R]. Malaysia, 1986: 5–6.

[3] AASHTO. A policy on geometric design of highways and streets [M]. Washington D C, USA, 2004: 175–202.

[4] Massachusetts Highway Department. Project development and design guide [M]. USA, 2006: 4.15–4.33.

[5] KRAMMES R A, GARNHAM M A, Worldwide review of alignment design policies [C]// Proceedings of the 1st International Symposium on Highway Geometric Design. TRB, National Research Council. USA. 1995: 19.1–19.17.

[6] ZhangB.-m., ShenJ.-k., ZhuB.-qiang.. Study on the velocity fluctuation of track cycling [J]. Sport Science Research, 2005, 26(1): 57-60

[7] CraigN. P., NortonK. I.. Characteristics of track cycling [J]. Sports Medicine, 2001, 31: 457-468

[8] ZHONG Cheng. Heritage and development-Retrospect of the design of Beijing Lucheng velodrome [J]. Architectural Journal, 2007(2): 48–63. (in Chinese)

[9] CUI Yu-ming. Unique track: Wooden track design for Longgang international cycling track [J]. Architectural Journal, 2005(7): 86–87. (in Chinese)

[10] The MathWorks. Curve fitting toolbox-user’s guide [EB/OL]. https://doi.org/wenku.baidu.com/view/d637aleb172ded630b1cb6f5.html. 2010-07-15.

[11] JiX.-z., WangY.-jing.. Construction technology of Nanjing cycling track [J]. Construction Technology, 1998, 10: 24-2.5

[12] BrokerJ., KylE. C., BurkeE.. Racing cyclist power requirements in the 4 000 m individual and team pursuits [J]. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 1999, 31(11): 1677-1685

[13] ZhangB.-m., ShenJ.-k., ZhuB.-qiang.. The study of the relationship between condition of velodrome and power-resistance-velocity [J]. China Sport Science, 2005, 25(1): 53-55

[14] JinL.-y., JinX., DangL.-y., LiuZ.-y., ChenS.-l., ZhangL.-p., WangX.-yang.. Influence of aerodynamics on track cycling [J]. China Sport Science, 2005, 25(3): 25-26

[15] WuL., GuanT.-min.. The study of track bicycle riding resistance and structure of training simulator [J]. Mechanical Design and Manufacture, 2005, 4: 8-9