Effect of Porosity of Badminton Shuttlecock on Aerodynamic Drag

Abstract

Badminton is a popular racquet sport. Unlike any other racquet sports, the object in play – the shuttlecock – has highly unique flight characteristics. Badminton shuttlecock is high drag projectile that decelerates rapidly in-flight. Shuttlecock trajectory is highly skewed as it falls at a much steeper angle than it rises. The design of the shuttlecock introduces unique aerodynamic characteristics. Shuttlecocks usually come in various speed grades, ranging from faster to slower. These shuttlecocks share the same appearance but perform very differently. Synthetic or plastic shuttlecock is more economical alternative to feather shuttlecock. However, their aerodynamic behaviour is more complex than feather shuttlecocks. Despite the popularity, limited studies have been undertaken to understand the complex aerodynamic behaviour of both feather and synthetic shuttlecocks, especially the flow characteristics around the shuttlecocks. Hence, the main purpose of this study is to understand the complex flow behaviour around a series of synthetic and feather shuttlecocks. An experimental study was undertaken to understand the effect of skirt porosity on the drag coefficient.