Three-Rigid-Body-Particle Modeling and Optimization of Trajectory and Posture for Alpine Skiing

This paper presents a new study on modeling and optimization of trajectory and posture for the super-giant (SG) slalom of alpine skiing. It is the first time that a Three-Rigid-Body-Particle model based on rigorous derivations and stability analysis is established to represent skiers trajectory and posture characteristics, as it is more accurate than the single-rigid-body model which is commonly used in existing studies. In addition, the Radau pseudospectral method is applied to solve the trajectory and posture optimization problem in order to obtain better skiing trajectory, skiing posture, and some key kinematic parameters of skiers. Moreover, this paper analyzes the effects of different body types, minimum turning radii, and flexor and extensor strength of knees and hip joint on skiing performance. Finally, based on the findings of the study, some advice about how to improve the performance of the SG slalom in view of science and technology is given to skiers and coaches for reference.