Title

Wakeboards : correlation of cognitive and analytical data on fins

Abstract

This thesis provides information about the effects that different fins have on a wakeboard and how it affects riders of all skill levels. The research is intended to show whether there is a correlation between the "feeling" that a rider perceives by performing a certain maneuver, and the results encountered on a complete laminar flow analysis. In addition, a discussion of available theories of how fins perform their objective will be presented. While it is possible for a rider to learn the different advantages and disadvantages of each fin size, material, and design by trying each configuration, such an approach is expensive and not practical. By analyzing and reporting how factors such as velocity, drag, pressure, and geometry, riders can have a better understanding of what kind of fin(s) they should consider when purchasing one. In addition this thesis provides qualitative results that show how each fin differs depending on its characteristics and material. Results are based on experimental trial of different types of fin by a set number of riders. At the end of this discussion the reader should have an understanding that the overall ranking of the fins based on FLUENT data is similar to that from the cognitive statistics. Therefore, on the basis of all the assumptions taken in this thesis and the results obtained, it is possible to predict a fin's performance based on the values that a software package like FLUENT will provide.

Notes

This item is only available in print in the UCF Libraries. If this is your thesis or dissertation, you can help us make it available online for use by researchers around the world by downloading and filling out the Internet Distribution Consent Agreement. You may also contact the project coordinator Kerri Bottorff for more information.

Thesis Completion

2007

Semester

Spring

Advisor

Kapat, Jayanta

Degree

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

College

College of Engineering and Computer Science

Degree Program

Mechanical Engineering

Subjects

Dissertations, Academic -- Engineering;Engineering -- Dissertations, Academic

Format

Print

Identifier

DP0022194

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Length of Campus-only Access

None

Document Type

Honors in the Major Thesis

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