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Human-Flow Interactions Wind Tunnel

University of Manchester

The Human-Flow Interactions (HFI) Tunnel is an open-circuit wind tunnel generating a 2m x 2m open jet with speeds up to 22m/s. Equipped with a six-component underfloor force balance, it measures aerodynamic drag on a manikin, cyclist, or wheelchair user, alongside real-time rider posture imaging. Operational since October 2022, the tunnel has been regularly utilized by British Cycling to complement their Olympic-standard Velodrome training at Manchester.

With funding from the NWTF+ infrastructure grant, the University of Manchester is partnering with British Cycling to enhance the tunnel’s aerodynamic testing capabilities. New state-of-the-art flow measurement and diagnostic tools include a thermal imaging system, wake scanning systems, and a robotic PIV system for detailed surface, wake, and full flow-field measurements around a cyclist. Additionally, a 4D body scanning rig will capture real-time 3D surface data with sub-millimeter accuracy. A new computational data assimilation facility will support high-speed surface mapping and integration with augmented/virtual reality equipment.

This upgrade will enable groundbreaking human-flow interaction analysis, incorporating advanced aerodynamic measurements, biometrics, and 4D scanning for image-based analysis and flow simulation—capabilities currently unavailable elsewhere in the UK. It will enhance this unique regional facility’s ability to generate new insights and create opportunities that align with UK Sport’s renowned ‘Marginal Gains’ strategy, potentially driving record-breaking performances in international competitions. Beyond elite cycling, the upgrade will enhance the facility’s capabilities to advance human-factor aerodynamics and support a wide range of aerodynamic research across diverse engineering sectors.

Location:
Manchester
Owner(s):
British Cycling working in partnership with University of Manchester
Test Section 1 size:
2m x 2m x 5m
Operational Status:
Operational
Number and Type of Staff:
Scientific: 4
Technical Support: 2
Test support:
Model design, installation and testing.
Designation:
Human-Flow Interaction Wind Tunnel
Performance:
Maximum Flow Speed: 22 m/s
Reynolds No: 1.5 x 10⁶/m
Total Pressure: 1 atm
Pressure: Up to 300 Pa
Temperature: Room temperature
Turbulence intensity: ~ 0.2%
Run Time: Continuous
Typical Recharge Time: N/A
Testing Capabilities:
Flow visualisation: Thermography
Aerodynamic loads: six-component force balance
Laser Measurements: PIV

Specialist Rigs:
Measurements of aerodynamic drag of a manikin or a cyclist on bike or wheel chair and real-time imaging of rider posture.
Equipment:
Six-component under floor force balance on a rotating turntable, Streamwise ProCap Professional, PIV, Thermography, hot-wire anemometry.