Case Study: OGK KABUTO improves helmet aerodynamics and shortens development time with Hexagon SC/Tetra

Using CFD to improve aerodynamic performance of helmets for sports and motorcycle racing games at the olympics

OGK KABUTO, a Japanese helmet manufacturer for cyclists and motorcycle racers, faced challenges in minimizing development time and cost while improving the aerodynamic performance of its products. Their traditional reliance on physical wind tunnel testing was time-consuming and made it difficult to visualize intricate airflow details. They partnered with vendor Hexagon and implemented its SC/Tetra CFD software to simulate and analyze air flow virtually.

Hexagon's SC/Tetra solution allowed OGK KABUTO to visualize airflow with great detail, enabling a more efficient development process. The simulation results closely matched physical wind tunnel tests, building trust in the virtual approach. This led to the development of patented aerodynamic components like the Wake Stabilizer. The results included reduced development time and the creation of a new CFD-oriented development process, first used for their helmets developed for the Rio 2016 Olympics. The analysis visuals also proved highly effective for marketing and public relations purposes.

OGK KABUTO

Akiyoshi Kuchino

Manager