The "knuckleball effect" in soccer, a random unpredictable movement of the ball when imparted little to no spin, which intrigues players, coaches, and fans with its unpredictability, results from variations in ball construction. Unlike other sports, soccer lacks standardized ball designs. This influences ball flight behavior significantly from game to game, especially when the ball is kicked with no spin. This project focused on understanding the knuckleball effect with two goals: reducing erratic movement by reducing lift forces and ensuring smoother airflow transitions. By analyzing created ball models, we aimed to create a stable design incorporating factors like seam length, panel symmetry, and surface characteristics. Through this research, we attempted to enhance soccer ball aerodynamics through a more consistent flight trajectory, particularly without rotation. Ultimately, our findings will inform the development of innovative designs aimed at minimizing the knuckleball effect, enhancing the quality and predictability of soccer ball flight in professional competitions.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Herzig, Noah
• Gonzalez, Elias
• Carmichael, Tucker
• Smith, Nora

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• 121828
• E-project-042524-165724

Keyword

• Knuckleball
• Sports
• Flight Path
• Wind Tunnel Simulations
• Soccer
• Aerodynamics

Advisor

• Levey, Fiona
• Gnanaskandan, Aswin

Year

• 2024

Date created

• 2024-04-25

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Mechanical Engineering

Source

• E-project-042524-165724

Rights statement

• In Copyright