The challenge

Sprint events are among the most exciting competitions in athletics, where fractions of a second can determine the outcome after months of training. To maximize performance, elite athletes increasingly rely on advanced training equipment designed to improve their speed under controlled conditions.
As running speed increases, aerodynamic drag grows rapidly, becoming one of the primary factors limiting an athlete’s maximum velocity. Training in an environment where aerodynamic resistance is significantly reduced allows sprinters to experience higher running speeds than they could naturally achieve, helping them adapt their neuromuscular response and optimize race performance.
The objective of the project was to design a towable aerodynamic shield capable of minimizing air resistance around the athlete while providing sufficient space and comfort during training sessions, without interfering with natural running mechanics.

Our contribution

SmartCAE collaborated with the Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI) and Vins Motors to develop the aerodynamic shape of an innovative training shield for elite sprinters.
Using Computational Fluid Dynamics, we simulated the complete aerodynamic system, including both the shield and the towing vehicle, evaluating multiple design configurations to optimize airflow around the athlete while ensuring practical manufacturability.
The simulation-driven design process enabled the development of the final geometry, balancing aerodynamic performance with functional and ergonomic requirements.

Benefits for the client

SmartCAE’s extensive expertise in computational simulation and external aerodynamics provided the customer with a single engineering partner throughout the entire product development process.
The optimized design resulted in a shield that was both simple to manufacture and highly effective at reducing aerodynamic drag around the athlete. Remarkably, the final geometry generated a slight forward aerodynamic thrust, further increasing the maximum speed achievable during training.
The completed prototype was successfully used in the preparation of athletes competing at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, contributing to the outstanding performances of the Italian sprint team.