The individual time trial as an optimal control problem

Journal article (2017)

Authors

Jenny De Jong Universiteit Utrecht
R.J. Fokkink Applied Probability - EEMCS
G.J. Olsder Discrete Mathematics and Optimization - EEMCS
A.L. Schwab Biomechatronics & Human-Machine Control - Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering
Research Group
Applied Probability (EEMCS) (TU Delft)
Copyright: © 2017 Jenny De Jong, R.J. Fokkink, G.J. Olsder, A.L. Schwab
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Published Date

04-05-2017

Language

English

Faculty

Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science

Department

Delft Institute of Applied Mathematics

Research Group

Applied Probability

Abstract

In a cycling time trial, the rider needs to distribute his power output optimally to minimize the time between start and finish. Mathematically, this is an optimal control problem. Even for a straight and flat course, its solution is non-trivial and
involves a singular control, which corresponds to a power that is slightly above the aerobic level. The rider must start at full anaerobic power to reach an optimal speed and maintain that speed for the rest of the course. If the course is flat but not straight, then the speed at which the rider can round the bends becomes crucial.