Optimal javelin trajectories.

A companion paper has treated computer simulation of javelin flight using measured lift, drag and pitching moments. In the present paper we present, categorize and discuss the relative significance of various initial conditions in such a simulation. Since the differential equations describing flight are autonomous, the eventual javelin range and entry angle are unique functions of the initial conditions. A series of successively less constrained optimum solutions is defined, the last of which is the global optimum javelin trajectory. Sensitivities of these trajectories to perturbations from the optima and their implications for throwers are discussed. Finally, we investigate the effects of some design and environmental parameters on optimal initial conditions and trajectories.