Product design and development of an aerodynamic hydration system for bicycling and triathlon

Abstract

Proper hydration and aerodynamic performance are both essential needs of a competitive cyclist or triathlete. Several aerodynamic systems have been developed for use on bicycles but few have been designed to be truly aerodynamic or easy to use. This project focused on the design and development of a frame mounted hydration system for cycling and triathlon that offered improvements in usability and aerodynamic performance over the current market solutions. A wind tunnel test validated a viable location on to place the fluid reservoir. Product specifications were derived from consumer needs and concepts were generated to fulfill those needs. Several iterations of CAD models of the entire product were made. The resulting product, a top tube mounted reservoir with a drinking tube and tri-leaf check valve for re-filling the reservoir while riding will be prototyped by the author over the summer of 2007.