Measurement of Aerodynamic Coefficients in a Half-Size Javelin Model

In wind tunnel testing of javelins, women's javelins have recently been tested using a magnetic suspension and balance system, while men's javelins have not been studied extensively. Therefore, we conducted wind tunnel tests using a model of a menʼs javelin. Using a Göttingen-type low-speed circulating wind tunnel apparatus, we measured the three longitudinal forces (drag, lift, and pitching moment) acting on a half-scale model of the javelin used in throwing competitions. We confirmed that the pitching moment exhibits an S-shaped curve, with positive and negative values reversed around +/-5° in relation to the angle of attack. This indicates that a slight change in the angle of attack may shift the center of wind pressure even further forward than the center of gravity of the javelin, suggesting that a stable angle of attack may exist.