More on the problem and the solution of the optimal shape of a javelin

Abstract

The analogy between the optimal javelin problem and the problem of determining the optimal shape of the free rotating rod has been established and employed to determine the optimal shape of the javelin via Pontryagin's maximum principle. Five distinct variational principles are constructed for boundary value problem describing optimal shape of the javelin. The first integral for this nonlinear system is found. An a priori estimate of the cross-sectional area is obtained. The optimal shape of the javelin or free rotating rod is determined by numerical integration. © 2007 by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.