This simulations represents a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis of a FIFA-standard football to investigate how spin affects aerodynamic forces like drag and lift. In this project, I conducted a high-fidelity Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation to analyze the aerodynamic behavior of a FIFA-standard football under both rotating and non-rotating conditions. The aim was to understand how surface design and spin influence the ball's trajectory by examining key aerodynamic forces — namely lift and drag.
Simulation Highlights:
- Model: FIFA-standard football (diameter: 0.22 m)
- Software: Dassault Systems 3DEXPERIENCE – Fluid Dynamics Engineer Role
Cases studied:
- Non-Rotating Ball (Knuckleball): Unsteady wake & slight downward lift.
- Rotating Ball (Spin Applied): Clear Magnus effect with upward lift & curved trajectory.
3D Model:-
Key Observations:
- Non-Rotating Case: Exhibits unsteady, asymmetric vortex shedding — leading to a fluttery or unpredictable flight path (like in a knuckleball).
- Rotating Case: Demonstrates the Magnus effect — producing lift in the spin direction, curving the ball in flight.
Lift and Drag Forces: Tracked over time using surface force extraction and plotted against simulation increments.
Roles Used for the following simulation are:-
1. Fluid Model Creation
2. Fluid Scenario Creation
1. For Non-Rotating Ball
Scenario Properties
Velocity
Velocity Vectors
For Rotating Ball:-
Scenario Properties
Velocity
Velocity vectors
