Masterplan and Technical Specifications for a Smart Olympic Basin for Flatwater Kayak Racing, Rowing, Bathing, and Sport Fishing
Year: 2026
Type: report
Abstract: This paper presents the comprehensive engineering masterplan and operational specifications for an advanced, multi-purpose Smart Olympic Aquatic Basin. Specifically engineered for flatwater canoe/kayak sprint (ICF) and short/middle-distance rowing (World Rowing), the facility addresses historical issues of hydrodynamic fairness, wake reflection, and spectator engagement. Featuring a 1500 m × 220 m × 4.0 m basin with a groundwater-permeable honeycomb alveolar floor and wave-dissipating perimeter banks, the venue guarantees optimal depth and water renewal while facilitating autonomous robotic maintenance. The racing area utilizes an automated submerged cable layout supporting 9 lanes (9.0 m) for canoeing or 6 lanes (13.5 m) for 500 m and 1000 m sprint rowing formats. Technological integrations include an RTK-GNSS and UWB telemetry grid, 4K instrumented spar buoys with underwater kinematic optical sensors, an on-water zero-wake electric catamaran equipped with thermo-convective ventilation for spectators and broadcast crews, and a rigid-lock ceremonial "Award Pier" tailored for hull sponsor exposure. When not hosting elite competitions, the basin functions as a civic infrastructure for open-water bathing and recreational angling.
Author: ROCCA, Alessandro
Language: English
Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7203678907
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