Patent Publication Number: US-2020288794-A1

Title: System and device for affecting drag properties of an object

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S) 
     This application is a divisional of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/160,795, filed May 20, 2016. U.S. application Ser. No. 15/160,795 claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/167,062 (filed on May 27, 2015). Both of the aforementioned applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     This application is related to affecting drag properties of an object that experiences motion. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY 
     In brief, and at a high level, this disclosure describes, among other things, a system of vortex generators that is applied to an object. In addition, this disclosure describes articles that are constructed to include vortex generators, including garment articles, tape, athletic equipment, and the like. Further, this disclosure describes a vortex-generator structure, as well as methods of making vortex generators and coupling them to an article. This high-level overview is provided to introduce a selection of concepts that are further described below in the detailed-description section. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in isolation to determine the scope of the claimed subject matter. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The present invention is described in detail herein with reference to the attached figures, which are incorporated herein by reference, wherein: 
         FIG. 1  depicts a first mapping of various vortex-generator patterns in accordance with an aspect hereof; 
         FIG. 2  depicts a second mapping of various vortex-generator patterns in accordance with an aspect hereof; 
         FIG. 3  depicts a third mapping of various vortex-generator patterns in accordance with an aspect hereof; 
         FIG. 4  depicts a fourth mapping of various vortex-generator patterns in accordance with an aspect hereof; 
         FIGS. 5A-5K  depict various garments including vortex generators in accordance with an aspect hereof; 
         FIG. 6A  depicts a vortex-generator-enhanced tape in accordance with an aspect hereof; 
         FIG. 6B  depicts a schematic, cross-sectional view of the vortex-generator-enhanced tape of  FIG. 6A  in accordance with an aspect hereof; 
         FIG. 7  depicts at least part of a vortex-generator kit in accordance with an aspect hereof; 
         FIG. 8  illustratively conveys the application of the vortex-generator kit of  FIG. 7  based on a mapping in accordance with an aspect hereof; 
         FIG. 9  depicts a flow chart of a method for making a vortex-generator-enhanced article in accordance with an aspect hereof; 
         FIG. 10A  depicts a vortex generator in accordance with an aspect hereof; 
         FIG. 10B  depicts a bottom elevation of the vortex generator depicted in  FIG. 10A  in accordance with an aspect hereof; 
         FIGS. 10C and 10D  depict other views of the vortex generator depicted in  FIGS. 10A and 10B  in accordance with an aspect hereof; 
         FIG. 11  depicts another vortex generator in accordance with an aspect hereof; 
         FIG. 12  depicts another vortex generator in accordance with an aspect hereof; 
         FIG. 13  depicts another vortex generator in accordance with an aspect hereof: 
         FIG. 14  depicts a bottom elevation of the vortex generator depicted in  FIG. 13  in accordance with an aspect hereof; 
         FIG. 15  depicts an arrangement of vortex generators in accordance with an aspect hereof; 
         FIG. 16  depicts a perspective view of the arrangement depicted in  FIG. 15  in accordance with an aspect hereof; 
         FIG. 17  depicts an exemplary arrangement of multiple sets of vortex generators in accordance with an aspect hereof; and 
         FIGS. 18A-18N  each depicts a respective vortex-generator configuration in accordance with an aspect hereof. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The subject matter of aspects of the present invention is described with specificity herein to meet statutory requirements. But the description itself is not intended to necessarily limit the scope of claims. Rather, the claimed subject matter might be embodied or carried out in other ways to include different elements or combinations of elements similar to the ones described in this document, in conjunction with other present or future technologies. 
     Overview 
     Vortex generators are sometimes attached to a surface of an object in order to improve aerodynamic qualities and reduce drag. Often vortex generators are used in automotive or aircraft technologies. But other types of structures that experience movement can also benefit from improved aerodynamic qualities, such as articles associated with human movement and athletic equipment. experience 
     Various sporting or athletic events can be decided based on fractions of a second or an inch. For example, in the 100 m sprint, track-and-field event, mere hundredths of a second often separate one runner from another runner. Thus, the amount of drag that one athlete experiences, as compared with an opposing athlete, can have an affect the outcome of an event. At a high level, this technology is related to reducing drag of an object that is subject to a motion by positioning one or more vortex generators on the object. 
     In one aspect, the technology includes a system of vortex generators (VG) that are positioned at various locations on an athlete&#39;s body. For example, the system might include one area or zone (e.g., distal portion of appendage) having a first arrangement of vortex generators and another area or zone (e.g., torso) having a second arrangement of vortex generators. Each of the respective arrangements includes respective arrangement properties that are selected for at least some of the benefits of a vortex generator, while taking into account other factors that can affect athletic, equipment, and/or apparel performance (e.g., weight, breathability, moisture management, and the like). Exemplary arrangement properties can include a vortex-generator height, a vortex-generator density, a size of the vortex-generator arrangement, and a shape of the vortex-generator arrangement. 
     In a further aspect, various apparatuses or devices might be used as a vehicle or medium to apply a system of vortex generators to an athlete&#39;s body. For instance, vortex generators might be arranged on a garment (e.g., shirt-type garment, pant-type garment, arm sleeve, leg sleeve, footwear, headwear, handwear, and the like) that is worn by the athlete. A garment can be constructed to include a particular arrangement of vortex generators that includes arrangement properties selected for a particular zone (e.g., torso or forearm). As such, a set of garments (e.g., shirt, shorts, and sleeves) can be utilized to provide different vortex-generator arrangements to different zones on an athlete. In addition, garments can be combined into a single garment (e.g., unitard) having different vortex-generator arrangements on different areas of the garment. In another aspect, vortex generators might be arranged on an adhesive body, such as tape, which can then be selectively applied to various zones on an athlete&#39;s body. Similarly to a garment, a tape can be constructed to include a particular arrangement of vortex generators that includes arrangement properties selected for a particular zone (e.g., lateral shin zone), and the tape can be selectively applied based on the arrangement. Tape that is constructed to include vortex generators may be applied to a garment or directly to a person&#39;s body. 
     Various types of vortex generators might be utilized in these systems. In one aspect, the vortex generator includes a vane having a dart-shaped configuration. In addition, the vane includes a surface that engages a boundary layer and that includes a simple-curved surface or a complex-curved surface. 
     One aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a system for reducing drag on an object. The system includes a first vortex-generator arrangement coupled to a first article and a second vortex-generator arrangement coupled to a second article. The first vortex-generator arrangement includes a first set of vortex generators having a first substantially consistent spacing and a first substantially consistent vortex-generator height. The second vortex-generator arrangement includes a second set of vortex generators having a second substantially consistent spacing and a second substantially consistent vortex-generator height. The second substantially consistent spacing is different than the first substantially consistent spacing and/or the second vortex-generator height is different than the first vortex-generator height. 
     Another aspect of the disclosure is directed to a vortex-generator kit. The vortex-generator kit includes a first article having a first vortex-generator arrangement and a second article comprising a second vortex-generator arrangement. The first vortex-generator arrangement includes a first set of vortex generators having a first substantially consistent spacing and a first substantially consistent vortex-generator height. The second vortex-generator arrangement includes a second set of vortex generators having a second substantially consistent spacing and a second substantially consistent vortex-generator height. The first and second substantially consistent spacing and the first and second substantially consistent vortex-generator height are based on a vortex-generator mapping. 
     A further aspect of the present disclosure includes a vortex generator having a base and a vane. The vane includes a bottom portion that has a dart-polygon configuration and that is integrally formed with the base. The vane also includes a top surface that is generally concave. The dart-polygon configuration includes a first convex portion, a second convex portion, a third convex portion, and a concave portion. In addition, an angle of the first convex portion is greater than respective angles of the second convex portion and the third convex portion, which are substantially similar. 
     In addition, the disclosure describes another vortex generator having a vane. The vane includes a bottom portion having a dart-polygon configuration defined by at least four edges. The edges include a first edge and a second edge that intersect at a first vertex to form a convex interior angle, and a third edge and a fourth edge that intersect at a second vertex to form a concave interior angle, wherein the first edge and the third edge intersect at a third vertex and the second edge and the fourth edge intersect at a fourth vertex. In addition, the vane includes a set of walls that extend from the at least four edges and that comprise a first wall and a second wall that extend from the first edge and the second edge, respectively, and that share a fifth edge, which intersects with the first edge and the second edge at the first vertex. The first wall includes a first curved edge and the second wall includes a second curved edge that intersects with the first curved edge at a fifth vertex, which is joined to the first vertex by the fifth edge. The first curved edge intersects with the third vertex and the second curved edge intersects with the fourth vertex. The vane also includes a third wall and a fourth wall that extend from the third edge and the fourth edge, respectively, and that share a sixth edge, which intersects with the third edge and the fourth edge at the second vertex. The third wall includes a third curved edge and the fourth wall includes a fourth curved edge that intersects with the third curved edge at a sixth vertex, which is joined to the second vertex by the sixth edge. The third curved edge intersects with the third vertex and the fourth curved edge intersects with the fourth vertex. The vane also includes a top surface that is generally concave and that is defined by the first curved edge, the second curved edge, the third curved edge, and the fourth curved edge. 
     This disclosure also describes a vortex-generator article including an article layer, a base that is coupled to the article layer, and a vane. The vane includes a bottom portion that has a dart-polygon configuration and that is integrally formed with the base. The vane also includes a top surface that is generally concave. The dart-polygon configuration includes a midline that intersects with a convex portion of the dart-polygon configuration and with a concave portion of the dart-polygon configuration. 
     A further aspect of the present disclosure describes a vortex-generator applique. The vortex-generator applique includes a strip of material having a first side and a second side and an adhesive layer applied to the first side of the strip of material. One or more vortex generators are coupled to the second side of the first strip of material. 
     In an additional aspect, the present disclosure describes a kit for affecting drag properties of an object. The kit includes a first vortex-generator applique and a second vortex-generator applique. The first vortex-generator applique includes a first strip of material having a first vortex-generator side and a first adhesive side, as well as a first adhesive layer applied to the first adhesive side of the first strip of material. In addition, the first vortex-generator applique includes a first set of one or more vortex generators coupled to the first vortex-generator side of the first strip of material, the first set of one or more vortex generators including a first pattern. The second vortex-generator applique includes a second strip of material having a second vortex-generator side and a second adhesive side, as well as a second adhesive layer applied to the second adhesive side of the second strip of material. In addition, the second vortex-generator applique includes a second set of one or more vortex generators coupled to the second vortex-generator side of the second strip of material, the second set of one or more vortex generators including a second pattern that is different from the first pattern. 
     Mapping Vortex-Generator Patterns 
     As indicated previously, one aspect of the present invention includes a system of vortex generators that are arranged at various locations relative to an athlete&#39;s body. Referring now to  FIGS. 1-4 , different mappings are illustrated that depict various possible arrangements of vortex generators on a respective athlete (e.g., female or male) competing in a respective event (e.g., sprint-distance or at least medium-distance running-based event). Generally, each of the mappings depicted in  FIGS. 1-4  includes different vortex-generator patterns prescribed to different human anatomical zones of the athlete. As used in this description, the term “pattern” or “vortex-generator pattern” describes a set of vortex-generators having a substantially consistent set of properties, such as spacing between vortex generators and vortex-generator dimensions (e.g., height, width, length, shape, etc.). 
     In an aspect of the disclosure, a mapping suggests a vortex-generator spacing and sizing that might be recommended for a particular type of athlete competing in a particular type of event. For example, a mapping (e.g.,  100 ,  200 ,  300 , or  400 ) may suggest patterns recommended for a particular body type or body-movement styles. As such, a mapping that is suggested for a body type may account for body-measurement ratios based on height, body circumference, appendage length, appendage circumference, and the like. In addition, a mapping that is suggested for a body-movement style may account for running style (e.g., more upright as compared with more forward lean), jumping style, appendage speed (e.g., lower-leg velocities, upper leg velocities, lower-arm velocities, upper-arm velocities, etc.), and the like. Although some portions of this disclosure describe that a mapping may be recommended for a female person, the mapping may also be recommended for a male, and vice versa. In addition, although some portions of this disclosure describe that a mapping may be recommended for a person engaging in a type of event, the mapping may be recommended for someone engaging in other types of events. 
     To further explain the use of patterns in  FIG. 1-4 , a pattern template is depicted in an enlarged window  102  of  FIG. 1  to illustrate that a pattern might include a spacing based on a first distance  110  and a second distance  112 . For example, in the window  102  the pattern of vortex generators includes a first row of vortex generators  108 A and  108 B that are spaced the distance  110  apart from one another. In addition, in window  102  the pattern of vortex generators includes a second row of vortex generators  106 A,  106 B, and  106 C. In an aspect of the present invention, the second row of vortex generators  106 A,  106 B, and  106 C is offset from the first row  108 A and  108 B and is spaced apart from the first row by the distance  112  that is substantially similar to the distance  110 . However, the vortex generators may not be offset. In a further aspect, the pattern depicted in window  102  reflects that the vortex generators include a vortex-generator height  114  consistent among the pattern. 
       FIG. 1  depicts a first mapping  100  suggesting various patterns of vortex-generator spacing and sizing that might be recommended for a female athlete competing in a shorter or sprint-type event, and  FIG. 2  depicts a second mapping  200  suggesting various patterns of vortex-generator spacing and sizing that might be recommended for a female athlete competing in a medium-distance or longer-distance event.  FIG. 3  depicts a third mapping  300  suggesting various patterns of vortex-generator spacing and sizing that might be recommended for a male athlete competing in a shorter or sprint-type event, and  FIG. 4  depicts a fourth mapping  400  suggesting various patterns of vortex-generator spacing and sizing that might be recommended for a male athlete competing in a medium-distance or longer-distance event. In other words, these mappings provide suggested patterns of vortex generators that could be arranged on a male or female athlete engaging in a particular type of event (e.g., sprint, non-sprint, medium distance, long distance, and the like), in order to receive improved drag-reduction benefits from vortex generators. As will be explained in other portions of this description, these patterns can be applied in different shapes and coverage areas using garments and/or adhesive tape. 
     There are four different patterns  120 ,  122 ,  124 , and  126  utilized among the mappings depicted in  FIGS. 1-4 ; however, each of the mappings applies the patterns in a different manner (or not at all) to achieve a desired affect based on the athlete gender and event type.  FIGS. 1 and 2  suggest vortex-generator-pattern placement for female athletes, and  FIGS. 3 and 4  suggest vortex-generator-pattern placement for male athletes. In addition,  FIGS. 1 and 3  suggest vortex-generator-pattern placement for athletes engaging in sprint-type events, which typically include the 100 meter sprint, 200 meter spring, and 400 meter sprint.  FIGS. 2 and 4  suggest vortex-generator-pattern placement for athletes engaging in longer-than-sprint events, which typically include running distances longer than 400 meters. Although this description indicates that the mappings depicted in  FIGS. 1-4  suggest vortex-generator positioning for certain sprint or running events, in other aspects, some or all of a mapping might be leveraged to position vortex generators for athletes competing in other events, such as throwing events, jumping events, and the like. 
     As previously mentioned, in  FIG. 1  a first mapping  100  is illustrated that shows how various patterns of vortex generators might be prescribed for different areas or zones of a female athlete engaging in an event having a sprint-type activity (e.g., 100 m sprint, 200 m sprint, and 400 m sprint), in accordance with an aspect of the present invention.  FIG. 1  includes a legend  118 A, which reflects a first vortex-generator pattern  120 , a second vortex-generator pattern  122 , a third vortex-generator pattern  124 , and a fourth vortex-generator pattern  126 . The use of different vortex-generator patterns on an athlete engaging in a particular event (e.g., 100 meter sprint) can take advantage of vortex generators in a strategic manner by employing vortex-generator spacing and vortex-generator sizes that provide an amount of drag reduction, while also possibly accounting for other conditions, such as garment weight, breathability, moisture management, and the like. 
     According to the first mapping  100 , the lower leg zones  128 A and  128 B (i.e., below the athlete&#39;s knee) have been coded (i.e., prescribed) with the first vortex-generator pattern  120  to indicate that a set of vortex generators having the first pattern  120  could be positioned in those lower leg zones  128 A and  128 B to provide an amount of drag reduction. For instance, a pant-style garment or a calf sleeve could be worn having portions that generally align with the distal leg zones  128 A and  128  and that are constructed to include the first vortex-generator pattern  120 . In addition, adhesive tape constructed to include the first vortex-generator pattern  120  could be applied to the distal leg zones  128 A and  128 B (i.e., directly to a person&#39;s body or to a portion of a garment that covers those zones). In one aspect, the first vortex-generator pattern  120  includes a spacing (i.e., distances  110  and  112 ) of 1 cm and includes a vortex-generator height of 3 mm, which is also reflected in Table 1 (below). 
     The first mapping  100  also indicates that lower arm zones  130 A and  130 B (i.e., forearm region below the athlete&#39;s elbow) have been coded with the second vortex-generator pattern  122  to indicate that a set of vortex generators having the second pattern  122  could be positioned in those lower arm zones  130 A and  130 B to provide an amount of drag reduction. As indicated in other parts of this description, an athlete might wear a garment (e.g., long-sleeved shirt or detached arm sleeve) having the second pattern  122  over the lower arm zones  130 A and  130 B and/or might apply an adhesive tape having the second pattern  122  to the distal arm zones  130 A and  130 B. In one aspect of the invention, the second vortex-generator pattern  122  includes a spacing of 1 cm and a vortex-generator height of 2.5 mm, which is the same spacing as the first pattern  120  with a shorter vortex-generator height. Again, the spacing and sizing of the second pattern  122  is recorded in Table 1 (below). 
     The first mapping  100  further illustrates that upper leg zones  132 A and  132 B (i.e., above the athlete&#39;s knee) have been coded with the third vortex-generator pattern  124 , and the upper arm zones (i.e.,  134 A and  134 B) and torso zone  136  have been coded with the fourth vortex-generator pattern  126 . As such, each of these zones can be equipped (e.g., using a garment or tape) with the designated pattern of vortex generators to achieve a desired amount of drag reduction. In one aspect, the third pattern  124  includes a spacing of 1.5 cm and a vortex-generator height of 2.5 mm, and the fourth pattern  126  includes a spacing of 2 cm and a vortex generator height of 2.5 mm. 
     To help illustrate how the patterns  120 ,  122 ,  124  and  126  compare to one another in respective dimensions (e.g., spacing and height) and how the patterns are utilized within the mapping  100  for a female athlete engaging in a sprint-type event, Table 1 is provided below. 
     
       
         
           
               
             
               
                 TABLE 1 
               
             
            
               
                   
               
               
                 Summary of Vortex-generator (VG) Pattern Mapping 
               
               
                 for Female Athlete Competing in Shorter-distance 
               
               
                 Events (e.g., 100 m, 200 m, or 400 m) 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                   
                 Visual 
                   
                 VG 
                 Designated 
               
               
                 Name (Ref. #) 
                 Code 
                 Spacing 
                 Height 
                 Zones 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 1 st  VG Pattern (120) 
                 
                   
                 
                 1 
                 cm 
                 3 
                 mm 
                 Lower leg zones 
               
               
                 2 nd  VG Pattern (122) 
                 
                   
                 
                 1 
                 cm 
                 2.5 
                 mm 
                 Lower arm zones 
               
               
                 3 rd  VG Pattern (124) 
                 
                   
                 
                 1.5 
                 cm 
                 2.5 
                 mm 
                 Upper leg zones 
               
               
                 4 th  VG Pattern (126) 
                 
                   
                 
                 2 
                 cm 
                 2.5 
                 mm 
                 Upper arm zones 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 and torso 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     Referring now to  FIG. 2 , a second mapping  200  is illustrated that shows how various patterns  120 ,  122 , and  126  of vortex generators might be prescribed for different areas or zones of a female athlete engaging in events that include at least a medium-distance element (e.g., running more than 400 m), in accordance with an aspect of the present invention. All of the various patterns  120 ,  122 , and  126  reflected in  FIG. 2  are also included in  FIG. 1 , thus the concepts illustrated by the pattern template shown in window  102  apply similarly (e.g., spacing  110  and  112  and vortex-generator height  114 ). In addition, it is understood that patterns  120 ,  122 , and  126  in mapping  200  include the same spacing and vortex-generator height as the patterns  120 ,  122 , and  126  in mapping  100 ; however, these patterns  120 ,  122  and  126  are prescribed in the mapping  200  to zones that are different than the zones prescribed by the mapping  100 . 
     For further clarity,  FIG. 2  includes a legend  118 B, which reflects the first vortex-generator pattern  120 , the second vortex-generator pattern  122 , and the fourth vortex-generator pattern  126 , which are included in the second mapping  200 . As previously indicated, the use of different patterns on an athlete engaging in a particular event (e.g., 800 meter sprint) takes advantage of vortex generators in a strategic manner employing vortex-generator densities and vortex-generator sizes that provide an amount of drag reduction, while also possibly accounting for other desired conditions, such as garment weight, breathability, moisture management, and the like. As previously indicated, each of the anatomical zones identified in the mapping  200  can be equipped (e.g., using a garment or tape) with the designated pattern of vortex generators to achieve a desired amount of drag reduction. 
     As compared with mapping  100 , mapping  200  includes a different usage and distribution of vortex-generator patterns, which is reflective of some level of event-specific, vortex-generator mapping. That is, the vortex-generator mappings (e.g.,  100  and  200 ) are different to take into account event-specific factors, such as anatomy (e.g., arm, leg, torso, etc.) speed, anatomy acceleration, anatomy angular movement, anatomy positions and body form during movement, and anatomy size, among others. 
     Similar to the mapping  100 , the mapping  200  illustrates that, in one instance, the lower leg zones  128 A are coded with the first vortex-generator pattern  120 , and the torso  140  is coded with the fourth vortex-generator pattern  126 . However, in the mapping  200  the lower arms  130 A and  130 B, the upper legs  132 A and  132 B, and the upper arms  134 A and  134 B are coded differently, as compared with the mapping  100 . That is, in the mapping  200  the upper arms  134 A and  134 B are coded with the second vortex-generator pattern  122 , but in the mapping  100  the upper arms  134 A and  134 B are coded with the fourth vortex-generator pattern  126 , which includes a larger spacing (lower VG density) than the second pattern  122 . In addition, in the mapping  200  the upper legs  132 A and  132 B are coded with the fourth vortex-generator pattern  126 , but in the mapping  100  the upper legs  132 A and  132 B are coded with the third vortex-generator pattern, which includes a closer spacing (higher VG density) than the fourth pattern  126 . Furthermore, in the mapping  200  the lower arms  130 A and  130 B are coded with the fourth vortex-generator pattern  126 , but in the mapping  100  the lower arms  130 A and  130 B are coded with the second vortex-generator pattern, which includes a closer spacing (higher VG density) than the fourth pattern  126 . 
     In one aspect of the present invention, these different applications of the same vortex-generator patterns within different mappings balances an amount of drag reduction for a particular zone based on anatomical factors (e.g. anatomy position, speed, acceleration, and angular movement) with other attributes (e.g., garment weight and breathability). For instance, a female&#39;s lower arms might be pumped at a higher velocity when sprinting in a shorter distance race (e.g., not longer than 400 meters), as compared with a longer distance race (e.g., greater than 400 meters). Thus, the mapping  100  suggests a higher density pattern of vortex generators (e.g., second pattern) in the lower arm zones  130 A and  130 B, as compared with the mapping  200 . Since the lower-arm anatomy of a female athlete, who is engaging in a longer distance race, might not receive the same benefit from a higher density pattern of vortex generators (as compared with a female engaging in a shorter distance race) the mapping  200  suggests a lower density pattern (e.g., fourth pattern  126 ) in the lower arm zones  130 A and  130 B. 
     To help illustrate how the patterns  120 ,  122 , and  126  compare to one another in respective dimensions (e.g., spacing and height) and how the patterns are utilized within the second mapping  200  for a female athlete engaging in at least a medium-distance-type event (i.e., at least 400 meters or longer), Table 2 is provided below. 
     
       
         
           
               
             
               
                 TABLE 2 
               
             
            
               
                   
               
               
                 Summary of Vortex-generator (VG) Pattern Mapping 
               
               
                 for Female Athlete Competing in Medium-distance 
               
               
                 or Long-distance Events (e.g., longer than 400 m) 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                   
                 Visual 
                   
                 VG 
                 Designated 
               
               
                 Name (Ref. #) 
                 Code 
                 Spacing 
                 Height 
                 Zones 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 1st VG Pattern (120) 
                 
                   
                 
                 1 cm 
                 3 
                 mm 
                 Lower leg zones 
               
               
                 2nd VG Pattern (122) 
                 
                   
                 
                 1 cm 
                 2.5 
                 mm 
                 Upper arm zones 
               
               
                 4th VG Pattern (126) 
                 
                   
                 
                 2 cm 
                 2.5 
                 mm 
                 Upper leg zones, 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 lower arm zones, 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 and torso 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     Referring now to  FIG. 3 , a third mapping  300  is illustrated that shows how various patterns  120 ,  122 , and  126  of vortex generators might be prescribed for different areas or zones of a male athlete engaging in events that include a shorter or sprint-distance element (e.g., 100 m, 200 m, or 400 m), in accordance with an aspect of the present invention. All of the various patterns  120 ,  122 , and  126  reflected in  FIG. 3  are also included in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , thus the concepts illustrated by the pattern template shown in window  102  apply equally (e.g., spacing  110  and  112  and vortex-generator height  114 ). In addition, it is understood that patterns  120 ,  122 , and  126  in the third mapping  300  include the same spacing and vortex-generator height as the patterns  120 ,  122 , and  126  in the first and second mappings  100  and  200 ; however, in the third mapping  300  these patterns  120 ,  122  and  126  are prescribed to zones of the athlete&#39;s anatomy in a manner that is different from both of the first and second mappings  100  and  200 . Similar to  FIGS. 1 and 2 ,  FIG. 3  also includes a mapping-specific legend  118 C that reflects the first vortex-generator pattern  120 , the second vortex-generator pattern  122 , and the fourth vortex-generator pattern  126 , which are included in the third mapping  300 . 
     The third mapping  300  suggests equipping both the upper and lower leg zones  128 A,  128 B,  132 A, and  132 B with the first vortex-generator pattern  120 . In addition, the third mapping suggests equipping both the upper and lower arm zones  130 A,  130 B,  134 A, and  134 B with the second vortex-generator pattern  122 . According to the third mapping  300 , the torso  136  is equipped with the fourth vortex-generator pattern  126 . As previously indicated, the various zones of an athlete might be equipped with a prescribed pattern of vortex generators by wearing a garment constructed with vortex generators and/or by applying an adhesive tape constructed to include vortex generators to a person&#39;s body or to a garment. 
     To help illustrate how the patterns  120 ,  122 , and  126  compare to one another in respective dimensions (e.g., spacing and height) and how the patterns are utilized within the third mapping  300  for a male athlete engaging in a sprint-type or shorter-distance event (e.g., 100 m, 200 m, or 400 m), Table 3 is provided below. 
     
       
         
           
               
             
               
                 TABLE 3 
               
             
            
               
                   
               
               
                 Summary of Vortex-generator (VG) Pattern Mapping 
               
               
                 for Male Athlete Competing in Shorter-distance 
               
               
                 Events (e.g., 100 m, 200 m, or 400 m) 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                   
                 Visual 
                   
                 VG 
                 Designated 
               
               
                 Name (Ref. #) 
                 Code 
                 Spacing 
                 Height 
                 Zones 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 1st VG Pattern (120) 
                 
                   
                 
                 1 cm 
                 3 
                 mm 
                 Lower leg zones 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 and upper leg 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 zones 
               
               
                 2nd VG Pattern (122) 
                 
                   
                 
                 1 cm 
                 2.5 
                 mm 
                 Lower arm zones 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 and Upper arm 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 zones 
               
               
                 4th VG Pattern (126) 
                 
                   
                 
                 2 cm 
                 2.5 
                 mm 
                 torso 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     Referring now to  FIG. 4 , a fourth mapping  400  is illustrated that shows how various patterns  120 ,  122 ,  124 , and  126  of vortex generators might be prescribed for different areas or zones of a male athlete engaging in events that include at least a medium-distance element (e.g., longer than 400 m), in accordance with an aspect of the present invention. All of the various patterns  120 ,  122 ,  124 , and  126  reflected in the fourth mapping  400  are also included the first mapping  100  ( FIG. 1 ), and patterns  120 ,  122 , and  126  are included in the second mapping  200  and the third mapping  300 . Thus, the same concepts apply with respect to vortex-generator spacing and height, and the patterns  120 ,  122 ,  124 , and  126  in the fourth mapping  400  include the same spacing and vortex-generator height as the patterns  120 ,  122 ,  124 , and  126  in the other mappings  100 ,  200 , and  300 . However, in the fourth mapping  400  these patterns  120 ,  122 ,  124 , and  126  are prescribed to zones of the athlete&#39;s anatomy in a manner that is different from the other mappings  100 ,  200 , and  300 . Similar to  FIGS. 1-3 ,  FIG. 4  also includes a mapping-specific legend  118 D that reflects the first vortex-generator pattern  120 , the second vortex-generator pattern  122 , the third vortex-generator pattern  124 , and the fourth vortex-generator pattern  126 , which are included in the fourth mapping  400 . 
     Similar to the third mapping  300 , the fourth mapping  400  suggests equipping both the upper and lower arm zones  130 A,  130 B,  134 A, and  134 B with the second vortex-generator pattern  122  and equipping the torso zone  136  with the fourth vortex-generator pattern  126 . In addition, both the third and fourth mapping suggest equipping the lower leg zone  128 A and  128 B with the first vortex-generator pattern  120 . However, the fourth mapping  400  differs from the third mapping  300  in that the fourth mapping suggests equipping the upper leg zone  132 A and  132 B with the third vortex-generator pattern  124 , which is less dense than the first pattern  120  suggested by the third mapping for the upper leg zone. As previously indicated, the various zones of an athlete might be equipped with a prescribed pattern of vortex generators by wearing a garment constructed with vortex generators and/or by applying an adhesive tape constructed to include vortex generators to a person&#39;s body or to a garment. 
     To help illustrate how the patterns  120 ,  122 ,  124  and  126  compare to one another in respective dimensions (e.g., spacing and height) and how the patterns are utilized within the fourth mapping  400  for a male athlete engaging in at least a medium-distance or longer-distance event (e.g., over 400 m), Table 4 is provided below. 
     
       
         
           
               
             
               
                 TABLE 4 
               
             
            
               
                   
               
               
                 Summary of Vortex-generator (VG) Pattern Mapping 
               
               
                 for Male Athlete Competing in Medium-distance or 
               
               
                 Long-distance Events (e.g., longer than 400 m) 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                   
                 Visual 
                   
                 VG 
                 Designated 
               
               
                 Name (Ref. #) 
                 Code 
                 Spacing 
                 Height 
                 Zones 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 1 st  VG Pattern (120) 
                 
                   
                 
                 1 
                 cm 
                 3 
                 mm 
                 Lower leg zones 
               
               
                 2 nd  VG Pattern (122) 
                 
                   
                 
                 1 
                 cm 
                 2.5 
                 mm 
                 Lower arm zones 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 and upper arm 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 zones 
               
               
                 3 rd  VG Pattern (124) 
                 
                   
                 
                 1.5 
                 cm 
                 2.5 
                 mm 
                 Upper leg zones 
               
               
                 4 th  VG Pattern (126) 
                 
                   
                 
                 2 
                 cm 
                 2.5 
                 mm 
                 Torso 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     An aspect of the present invention includes using the various mappings  100 ,  200 ,  300 , and  400  to construct garments and adhesive tape. Furthermore, although the mappings  100 ,  200 ,  300 , and  400  refer to either shorter/sprint events or medium/long events, the mappings  100 ,  200 ,  300 , and  400  might be used to provide benefits in other events in accordance with an aspect of the present invention. For example, various throwing motions are common in events, such as the javelin throw, discus throw, shot put throw/put, and at least part of the mappings  100 ,  200 ,  300 , and  400  might be used to determine how to equip an athlete engaging in one or more of these events. Likewise, jumping is common in various events, and a further aspect of the present invention includes applying at least part of the mappings  100 ,  200 ,  300 , and  400  to determine how to equip an athlete competing in jumping event. Various other motions might also benefit from vortex-generator-induced, drag reduction, such as pole vaulting, cycling, skating, skiing, sledding, and snowboarding, among many others. 
     Vortex-Generator-Enhanced Garments 
     As indicated in other parts of this description, the mappings  100 ,  200 ,  300 , and  400  of  FIGS. 1-4  can be used as guides to construct garments with particular patterns of vortex generators. As such, the garments can be combined with one another to create a system of vortex generators customized for a particular gender of athlete engaging in a particular type of event. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 5A-5K , various aspects of the present invention are illustrated in which garments have been constructed to include an arrangement of vortex generators having a vortex-generator pattern suggested by one of the mappings  100 ,  200 ,  300 , and  400 . That is, each of the garments depicted in  FIGS. 5A-5K  are configured to cover one or more of the zones  128 A/B,  130 A/B,  132 A/B,  134 A/B, and  136  of a male and/or female athlete. Accordingly, each of the garments in  FIGS. 5A-5K  are customized to include one or more of the vortex-generator patterns  120 ,  122 ,  124 , and  126 , based on the gender of the athlete and the type of event in which the garment might be worn. 
     In one aspect of the present invention, the garments depicted in  FIGS. 5A-5K  are equipped with arrangements of vortex generators, the arrangements being sized and shaped to balance drag reduction with other qualities. For instance, an arrangement might be positioned on a garment at a position in which the boundary layer typically separates from the garment when the garment is worn by a person engaging in a activity. In one aspect, an arrangement is positioned lateral to an anterior-portion midline, such as lateral to a midline along an anterior side of a leg and/or lateral to a midline along an anterior side of a torso. In another aspect, arrangements of vortex generators are omitted from portions of a garment that might receive less drag-reduction benefits from the vortex generators. A further aspect of the present invention includes orienting the vortex generators based on an angular velocity in a particular zone of the athlete (e.g., lower leg zone, upper leg zone, upper arm zone, lower arm zone, torso, and the like). 
     For example,  FIG. 5A  depicts one aspect including a right-leg sleeve  502 , which includes an anterior portion  504  and a posterior portion  506 . The anterior portion  504 , which is alignable along an anterior portion of an athlete&#39;s lower leg, is constructed to include an arrangement of vortex generators, which includes the first vortex-generator pattern  120  based on the mappings  100 ,  200 ,  300 , and  400 . The right-leg sleeve  502  includes the pattern  120 , which is consistently prescribed for the lower leg zone  128 A/B in both male and female athletes and in both shorter and longer distance events. Although only the right-leg sleeve  502  is depicted, an aspect of the invention also includes a left-left sleeve that is essentially a mirror image of the right-leg sleeve  502 . For example, the orientation of the pattern  120  and the shape of the arrangement of vortex generators might be a mirror image. 
     In another aspect illustrated by  FIG. 5B , exemplary garments include a right-arm sleeve  510 A and a left-arm sleeve  510 B constructed to include a respective arrangement of vortex generators  512 A and  512 B. Similar to the leg sleeves described with respect to  FIG. 5A , the arm sleeves  510 A and  510 B might be mirror images of one another. In one aspect, the vortex-generator arrangements  512 A and  512 B might include the second vortex-generator pattern  122 , as suggested by the first, third, and fourth mappings  100 ,  300 , and  400 . In another aspect, when the arm sleeves  510 A and  510 B are to be worn by a female athlete competing in a longer-than-sprint-distance event, the second mapping  200  suggests that the vortex-generator arrangements  512 A and  512 B should include the fourth pattern  126 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 5C , a shorts-type garment  514  is depicted for a male athlete engaging in a longer-than-sprint-type event (e.g., greater than 400 m). The shorts-type garment  514  is constructed to include a vortex-generator arrangement  516  that is alignable in an upper leg zone  132 A and  132 B when the shorts-type garment  514  is worn. Based on the mapping  400 , the vortex-generator arrangement  516  includes the third vortex-generator pattern  124  based on the gender of the athlete and the type of event in which the shorts-type garment  514  might be worn. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 5D and 5E , sleeveless-shirt-type garments  518  and  522  are depicted for a male athlete. For example, the garment  518  might be a singlet-style garment worn by male athletes competing in longer-than-sprint-type events, and the garment  522  might be a worn by a male athlete competing in a sprint-type event. Both of the sleeveless-shirt-type garments  518  and  522  are constructed to include a vortex-generator arrangement  520 A/B and  524 A/B that is alignable in a torso zone  136  when each garment  518  and  522  is worn. Based on the mappings  300  and  400 , the vortex-generator arrangements  520 A/B and  524 A/B both include the fourth vortex-generator pattern  126  based on the gender of the athlete and the type of event in which each of the garments  518  and  522  might be worn. 
       FIG. 5F  depicts another aspect of the present invention, which includes a unitard-style garment  526  for a male athlete engaging in a sprint-type event. The unitard-style garment  526  is constructed to include a plurality of vortex-generator arrangements  528 A/B,  530 A/B, and  532  that are alignable with upper leg zones  132 A and  132 B, a torso  136 , and upper arm zones  134 A/B (respectively) when the unitard-style garment  526  is worn. Based on the mapping  300 , the vortex-generator arrangements  528 A/B includes the first pattern  120 , the arrangements  530 A/B include the fourth pattern  126 , and the arrangement  532  includes the second pattern  122  to provide specificity for the gender of the athlete and the type of event in which the unitard-style garment  526  might be worn. Although the unitard garment  526  is illustrated with sleeve portions, in other aspect, the unitard garment might be sleeveless. In addition, another aspect might include portions of the unitard that include the same vortex-generator arrangements and that are separate from one another in either a shorts-only garment, a shirt-only garment, or a singlet-only garment. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 5G and 5K , sleeveless-shirt-type garments  534  and  556  are depicted for a female athlete. For example, the garment  534  ( FIG. 5G ) might be a singlet-style garment worn by female athletes competing in longer-than-sprint-type events, and the garment  556  ( FIG. 5K ) might be a worn by a female athlete competing in a sprint-type event. Both of the sleeveless-shirt-type garments  534  and  556  are constructed to include a vortex-generator arrangement  536 A/B and  558 A/B (respectively) that is alignable in a torso zone  136  when each garment  534  and  558  is worn. Based on the mappings  100  and  200 , the vortex-generator arrangements  536 A/B and  558 A/B both include the fourth vortex-generator pattern  126  based on the gender of the athlete and the type of event in which each of the garments  534  and  556  might be worn. 
       FIG. 5H  depicts another aspect of the present invention, which includes a unitard-style garment  538  for a female athlete engaging in a sprint-type event. The unitard-style garment  538  is constructed to include a plurality of vortex-generator arrangements  540 ,  542 A/B, and  544  that are alignable with upper leg zones  132 A and  132 B, a torso zone  136 , and upper arm zones  134 A/B (respectively) when the unitard-style garment  538  is worn. Based on the mapping  100 , the vortex-generator arrangement  540  includes the third pattern  124 , the arrangements  542 A/B include the fourth pattern  126 , and the arrangement  544  includes the fourth pattern  126  to provide specificity for the female gender of the athlete and the type of event in which the unitard-style garment  538  might be worn. Although the unitard garment  538  is illustrated with sleeve portions, in other aspect, the unitard garment might be sleeveless. In addition, another aspect might include portions of the unitard that include the same vortex-generator arrangements and that are separate from one another in either a shorts-only garment, a shirt-only garment (e.g.,  FIG. 5J ), or a singlet-only garment. 
     Referring to  FIG. 5I , a shorts-type garment  546  is depicted for a female athlete engaging in a longer-than-sprint-type event (e.g., greater than 400 m). The shorts-type garment  546  is constructed to include a vortex-generator arrangement  548  that is alignable in an upper leg zone  132 A and  132 B when the shorts-type garment  546  is worn. Based on the mapping  200 , the vortex-generator arrangement  548  includes the fourth vortex-generator pattern  126  to provide gender specificity (i.e., female) and event specificity. 
       FIGS. 5A-5K  provide examples of garments on which vortex generators might be applied, in accordance with aspects of the present invention. However, vortex generator might be applied to various other types of garments, such as headwear (e.g., cap, helmet, beanie, etc.), handwear (e.g., gloves, mittens, hand braces, etc.), and footwear (e.g., running flats, track spikes, cleats, basketball shoes, and cross-training shoes, among many others). In other aspects, event specific articles might be enhanced with vortex generators, such as a javelin sleeve to be worn on a throwing arm. 
     In a further aspect, vortex generators are positioned on a footwear article at regions of the footwear at which the boundary layer separates from the outer surface of the footwear. In another aspect, the vortex generators are positioned to include a particular angular orientation relative to a ground surface at a particular positioning in a running stride. For example, a region (e.g., shoe upper) of a footwear article might experience a respective velocity having an angular orientation with respect to the upper surface when the article is about to be pulled off of the ground (i.e., by runner). Thus in one aspect, vortex generators might be angled to point in a direction of the velocity on the particular region to account for the angular orientation of the velocity. These angles might be different based on the type of event or the athlete. For example, in some events, angular velocities might include angles of about 79 degrees or 55 degrees, depending on where the article is in the stride. In other contexts (i.e., event and/or athlete) the upper might experience angular velocities oriented at about 130 degrees or 42 degrees relative to the plane of the upper, depending on where the article is in the stride. 
     Vortex-Generator-Enhanced Adhesive Tape 
     In another aspect of the present invention, a vortex-generator applique is constructed to include an arrangement of vortex generators. Accordingly the arrangement of vortex generators can be selectively applied to one or more particular zones of a person&#39;s body, such as by applying the applique to a garment or directly to the person&#39;s body. In addition, the applique can be constructed to include one or more vortex-generator patterns, such as one or more of the patterns  120 ,  122 ,  124 , or  126  (i.e., VG-enhanced tape). As such, each one of the patterns  120 ,  122 ,  124 , and  126  can be selectively applied to one or more particular zones of a person&#39;s body. The patterns  120 ,  122 ,  124 , and  126  are merely exemplary of some patterns in accordance with one aspect of the disclosure, and a VG-enhanced applique may be constructed to include other patterns in accordance with other aspects of the disclosure. 
     Referring to  FIG. 6A , an exemplary adhesive-tape strip  610  (e.g., applique) is depicted that is attachable to various zones of an athlete&#39;s body (i.e., to a garment or directly to the person&#39;s body). In  FIG. 6A , the strip  610  includes an outward-facing surface  612 , which faces away from the athlete&#39;s skin surface when the strip  610  is attached to the athlete and faces away from the surface of a garment to which the strip may be attached. The adhesive-tape strip  610  is constructed such that an arrangement of vortex generators (e.g.,  614 A-F) is affixed to the outward-facing surface  612 . The arrangement of vortex generators can be configured to include any desired spacing or vortex-generator size, and in one aspect of the present invention, the arrangement of vortex generators includes the spacing and sizing set forth in one or more of the patterns  120 ,  122 ,  124 , and  126 . As such, one or more of the adhesive-tape strips  610  are attachable to any of the zones  128 A/B,  130 A/B,  132 A/B,  134 A/B, and/or  136  to selectively apply one or more vortex-generator patterns. For example, if the adhesive-tape strip  610  is constructed to include the first vortex-generator pattern  120 , then a male or female athlete engaging in a sprint-type event might apply the adhesive-tape strip to his or her lower leg region  128 A/B. 
       FIG. 6B  depicts a cross-sectional, schematic view of the adhesive-tape strip  610 , taken across the cross-sectional reference line depicted in  FIG. 6A , in accordance with an aspect of the present invention. In  FIG. 6B , the adhesive-tape strip  610  includes the outward-facing surface  612  of a base-layer substrate layer  616 . The base-layer substrate  616  might include an elastic layer (e.g., elastomeric and flexible fabric) configured to stretch uni-directionally (e.g., in length) or bi-directionally (e.g., length and width) to provide a desired force against an applied-to surface (e.g., an athlete&#39;s skin surface). In addition, the base-layer substrate might be designed to provide a desirable amount of breathability and/or moisture tolerance. The base-layer substrate  616  might be constructed of a natural fiber (e.g., cotton), a synthetic fiber, or a combination thereof. In one aspect, the base-layer substrate  616  is a type of base-layer substrate used to construct elastic therapeutic tape (e.g., kinesio tape). 
     The adhesive-tape strip  610  also includes a first adhesive layer  618  applied to an inward-facing surface of the base-layer substrate  616 , the inward-facing surface generally opposing the outward-facing surface  612  and facing towards an athlete&#39;s skin surface (or towards a garment) when the strip  610  is coupled to the athlete&#39;s skin surface (or to a garment). The first adhesive layer  618  might have various properties making the adhesive-tape strip  610  suitable for application to human skin in a therapeutic or supportive context, such as non-irritation properties, heat-activation properties, and the like. 
     In one aspect, the adhesive-tape strip  610  includes a removable backing layer  620  that covers the adhesive layer  618  prior to the strip  610  being applied to an athlete. The removable backing layer  620  can then be peeled away from the strip  610  to uncover the adhesive layer  618 . The backing layer  620  may also be used as a vehicle onto which to print instructions for how and where to apply the adhesive-tape strip  610 . For example, if the adhesive-tape strip  610  includes an arrangement of vortex generators that include the first pattern  120 , then the backing layer  620  might include an explanation of the zones on the athlete&#39;s body (e.g.,  128 A/B) to which it is suggested to apply the strip  610 . However, in other aspects, the removable backing layer  620  might be omitted when the strip  610 , and the strip  610  is rolled up to cover the adhesive layer prior to applying the strip to an athlete. 
     In a further aspect, the adhesive-tape strip  610  includes a second adhesive layer  622 A and  622 B that bonds the vortex generators  614 A and  614 B to the outward-facing surface  612  of the strip  610 . As indicated above, the depiction provided by  FIG. 6B  is schematic in nature and is not necessarily meant to illustrate or depict accurate scaling of layer thickness or vortex-generator sizing or spacing. 
     Vortex-Generator Kit 
     In an aspect of the present invention, garments, tape, or both garments and tape, are combinable into a kit to provide a system of vortex generators that may be used to apply one or more pattern selection and placement suggested by a vortex-generator mapping. For example, a kit might include a combination of garment(s) and/or tape having various vortex-generator patterns matching at least part of one or more of the mappings  100 ,  200 ,  300 , and  400 . In addition, the kit might include a set of instructions suggesting where VG-enhanced tape can be worn by an athlete, consistent with a particular mapping. 
     For example, a first kit might be configured for a male athlete competing in a sprint-type event (e.g., 100 meter dash, 200 meter dash, or 400 meter dash), the first kit including one or more garments, VG-enhanced tape, or both garment(s) and VG-enhanced tape that is combinable to provide a system of vortex generators that applies the pattern selection and placement designated in the third vortex-generator mapping  300 . Among other garment items, the first kit might include the unitard garment  5 F (with or without sleeves) and/or independent shorts and singlet  5 E. In addition, the first kit might include leg sleeves (e.g.,  5 A) including the first pattern  120  and arm sleeves including the second pattern  122 . 
     In a further aspect of the disclosure, the first kit for a male sprinter might include a first set of VG-tape strips having the first vortex-generator pattern  120  and a second set of VG-tape strips having the second vortex-generator pattern  122 . The kit might also include instructions suggesting the placement of the first set of VG-tape strips (e.g., at an area corresponding with lower leg zone  128 A/B) and a different placement of the second set of VG-tape strips (e.g., at areas corresponding with upper and lower arm zones). The kit may or may not include tape with the fourth vortex-generator pattern  126  for placement in an area corresponding with the torso or abdomen. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 7 and 8  an exemplary kit of VG-enhanced tape is depicted.  FIG. 7  includes a VG-enhanced applique  234 A for an upper portion of a right arm, a VG-enhanced applique  234 B for an upper portion of a left arm, a VG-enhanced applique  230 A for a lower portion of a right arm, a VG-enhanced applique  230 B for a lower portion of a left arm, a VG-enhanced applique  228 A for lateral side of a lower right leg, a VG-enhanced applique  229 A for a medial side of a lower right leg, a VG-enhanced applique  228 B for lateral side of a lower left leg, and a VG-enhanced applique  229 B for a medial side of a lower left leg. In an aspect of the present invention, the appliques  230 A/B,  234 A/B,  228 A/B, and  229 A/B are combined into a set of appliques that may be usable by a person to achieve an amount of drag reduction. Furthermore, the set of appliques may be used to apply vortex generators to a person in a manner consistent with at least part of one or more of the mappings  100 ,  200 ,  300 , and  400 . For example, the set of appliques may be used by a male sprinter in a manner consistent with the mapping  300  depicted in  FIG. 3 . 
     In  FIG. 7 , directly below the depiction of each applique is an illustration of pictorial instructions depicting how to attach a respective applique to a person. As explained in other portions of this disclosure, the instructions may be printed on the removable backing layer  620  or may be printed on the substrate layer  616 . All of the appliques depicted in  FIG. 7  might be worn by a person at the same time when competing in an event and in a manner consistent with the mapping  300 . In other aspects, less than all of the appliques might be worn during an event, but the appliques may still be positioned relative to the person&#39;s body in a manner consistent with the mapping  300 . Additional appliques may be combined with the appliques depicted in  FIG. 7 , such that a person wears more appliques than those depicted in  FIG. 7  for a particular event. 
     Reference is now made to  FIG. 8 , which further illustrates that a kit or system of vortex-generator tape may be used to achieve an amount of drag reduction in a manner consistent with a mapping.  FIG. 8  includes a reproduction of  FIG. 3  for illustrative purpose, the reproduction including a depiction of the mapping  300 .  FIG. 8  also illustrates one manner in which the appliques  230 A/B,  234 A/B,  228 A/B, and  229 A/B might be applied in a manner that is consistent with the mapping  300 . For example, the appliques  230 A/B might be applied to the lower portions  130 A/B of the right and left arms (respectively). In  FIG. 8 , the appliques  230 A/B are outlined by a respective box that is labeled with reference numeral  122  to illustratively convey that the appliques  230 A/B may be constructed to include a vortex-generator pattern that is consistent with the pattern  122 . In addition, the appliques  234 A/B might be applied to the upper portions  134 A/B of the right and left arms (respectively). In  FIG. 8 , the appliques  234 A/B are also outlined by a respective box that is labeled with reference numeral  122  to convey that the appliques  234 A/B may be constructed to include a vortex-generator pattern that is consistent with the pattern  122 . As further depicted in  FIG. 8 , the appliques  228 A/B and  229 A/B might be applied to the lower portions  128 A/B (e.g., calf, shin, and the like) of the right and left legs (respectively). In  FIG. 8 , the appliques  228 A/B and  229 A/B are outlined by a respective box that is labeled with reference numeral  120  to convey that the appliques  234 A/B may be constructed to include a vortex-generator pattern that is consistent with the pattern  120 . 
     The kit of vortex generators depicted in  FIGS. 7 and 8  is merely exemplary, and a vortex-generator kit might include various other combinations of articles (e.g., garments, tape, or a combination of garments and tape) constructed to include vortex generators in various patterns. These patterns may be consistent with at least part of a mapping and may be prescribed for a particular zone of a person. As explained in other parts of this specification, a kit may or may not include articles that are applied to every zone identified in the mappings  100 ,  200 ,  300 , and  400 . Even though a kit may omit an article that corresponds with a particular region (e.g., upper leg region  132 A/B), the kit may still provide vortex-generator-enhanced articles in a manner that is consistent with a mapping. For instance, the kit depicted in  FIG. 7  omits a vortex-generator-enhance article that can be applied to the upper leg region  132 A/B, but the kit in  FIG. 7  still provides a system of vortex generators based on the mapping  300 . 
     In other aspects, a size of the vortex-generator-enhanced articles may increase or decrease to accommodate different body dimensions, such as height. For instance, a kit for taller athletes may include VG-enhanced tape that is longer than a kit for shorter athletes. In this case, the VG-patterns may be the same between the two kits, even though the longer VG-enhanced tape may include additional vortex generators covering the additional length. 
     Various other kits are also contemplated within the scope of aspects of the invention, such as kits customized for male athletes competing in longer-than-sprint-type events (e.g., longer than 400 meters), female athletes competing in longer-than-sprint-type events, and female athletes competing in sprint-type events. Each of these kits includes one or more garments (e.g., shorts, pants, shirts, tanks, sleeves, etc.), VG-enhanced tape, or a combination thereof to provide a system of vortex generators that applies the pattern selection and placement suggested by a respective vortex-generator mapping. 
     Method of Making VG-Enhanced Article 
     Vortex-generator enhanced articles, such as garments or tape, can be constructed using various techniques. Referring to  FIG. 9  a flow chart depicts a series of steps that, when executed, carry out a method  700  of constructing a VG-enhanced article, in accordance with an aspect of this invention. A VG-enhanced article includes an article (e.g., garment, equipment, or tape) that includes one or more vortex generators coupled (e.g., adhered, molded to, cast to, etc.) to a surface of the article. 
     In one aspect, step  710  includes casting a first set of vortex generators by pouring a material (e.g., silicone, polyurethane, thermoplastic polyurethane, etc.) into a mold having a first set of mold cavities, each of which includes a shape of each vortex generator of the first set of vortex generators. The mold might include various configurations, and in one aspect, the mold includes a substantially flat plate having rows of vortex-generator cavities aligned side-by-side. In a further aspect, the vortex generator cavities might be oriented in the mold, such that the vortex-generator base is positioned toward an open portion of the cavity into which the material is poured. The material poured into the mold cavities is hardened, dried, cured, etc. by applying an appropriate process (e.g., heating, cooling, drying, pressurized, vulcanized, and the like). 
     Step  712  includes coupling the cast vortex generators to a transfer sheet, in one aspect of the method  700 . For example, when the base of the vortex generator is cast towards the open portion of the mold cavity, then an adhesive might be applied to the base, and the transfer sheet might be pressed against the vortex generator base to remove the vortex generator from the mold cavity. In this respect, adhesive can be applied to all of the vortex-generator bases in the same step to allow all (or substantially all) of the cast vortex generators to be removed from the mold using the transfer sheet. In another aspect, an adhesive might be applied to the transfer sheet to remove the cast vortex generators without applying an adhesive to the vortex-generator bases. 
     In a further aspect, step  714  includes transferring one or more of the vortex-generators from the transfer sheet to a vortex-generator template, which may include a grid of vortex-generator-receiving cavities, each of which allows a vortex-generator to be positioned therein with a base of the vortex-generator facing away from the cavity. An exemplary vortex-generator template includes a set of vortex-generator slots for receiving a set of vortex generators to be arranged into a pattern formed by the vortex-generator slots. For example, a template might include a grid of vortex-generator slots that are arranged in a sheet and organized into rows having a consistent spacing. In one aspect, the rows and the spacing of the template are configured to create one or more of the patterns  100 ,  200 ,  300 , and  400 . For example, a separate template might be used for each of the patterns  100 ,  200 ,  300 , and  400 . Or in another aspect, the vortex-generator slots and rows might include a spacing that allows the same template to be used to create more than one of the patterns. For example, if the template slots and rows included a spacing of 0.5 cm, then the template could be used to create more than one of the patterns  100 ,  200 ,  300 , and  400  by transferring vortex generators into only select ones of the slots. 
     Once the vortex generators are placed in the appropriate slots in the template that form a desired pattern (e.g.,  100 ,  200 ,  300 , or  400 ), step  716  includes applying a bonding agent (e.g., layers  622 A and  622 B in  FIG. 6B ) to the base of each of the vortex generators, the base facing out of the template cavity. In step  718 , the template is then pressed onto a select article to bond or adhere the vortex generators to the article in the pre-set pattern. For example, the template might be pressed onto a garment layer, tape, or athletic equipment. The one or more vortex generators might be affixed to an article layer using various methods. For example, in one aspect, the bonding agent is a pressure activated agent that adheres to the article layer when the one or more vortex-generators are pressed onto the article layer. In another aspect, the bonding agent might be heat activated, in which case a heat-providing device (e.g., heat gun) is used to cure the bonding agent when the one or more vortex generators are positioned on the article layer. In a further aspect, a vacuum filter might be utilized to hold the one or more vortex generators in position on the article layer while the bonding agent is curing (e.g., while pressure or heat is applied). 
     Vortex-generator-enhanced articles might be manufactured using other techniques as well. For example, in one aspect, one or more vortex generators might be 3D printed directly onto an article layer. In another aspect, one or more vortex generators might be 3D printed in an initial step and then bonded to an article layer. And in an alternative aspect, one or more vortex generators might be integrally molded with an article layer, such as in a co-molding process, injection molding, or successive molding process. 
     Structure of One or More Vortex Generators 
     A vortex generator that is used to enhance a garment (e.g.,  FIGS. 5A-5K ), tape (e.g.,  FIGS. 6A and 6B ), or other athletic equipment might have various structures. Generally, a vortex generator includes a vane for affecting a boundary layer of a flow of a fluid medium (e.g., air or water) passing over the surface of an article (e.g., garment or tape donned by an athlete or equipment used in a sporting event). In addition, a vortex generator typically includes a base for attaching the vane to the article. In one aspect of the present invention, a vortex generator includes a dart-shaped vane in combination with different types of bases. For instance,  FIGS. 10A-10D  illustrate the dart-shaped vane with a first type of base and  FIGS. 11-14  illustrate the dart-shaped vane with other types of bases. However, in other aspects, a vortex generator might include a vane having a configuration that is different from the dart-shaped configuration. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 10A-10D , an exemplary vortex generator is depicted and is identified generally by reference numeral  10 .  FIG. 10B  depicts a bottom elevation of the vortex generator shown in  FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 10D .  FIG. 10C  depicts a rear elevation view, and  FIG. 10D  depicts a front elevation perspective.  FIG. 10C  is described as a rear view because in one aspect the vortex generator  10  is positioned so that the vertex  60  is “downstream” (relative to vertices  30  and  32 ) when the fluid medium flows over the vortex generator  10 . 
     The vortex generator  10  includes a vane  12  that extends from a base  14 . Generally, the base  14  is the part of the vortex generator  10  that supports the vortex generator  10  on an article (e.g., garment or equipment), adhesive strip, or human, and the vane  12  is the part of the vortex generator  10  that affects the boundary layer of the fluid-medium flow. In  FIG. 10A , there is not necessarily a clear delineation between the vane  12  and the base  14 , and a portion of the vortex generator  10  that is considered part of the vane  12  might also be considered part of the base  14 . For example,  FIG. 10B  depicts a bottom elevation of the vortex generator  10 , including a bottom surface  16 . The bottom surface  16  might be considered part of the vane  12  because it forms part of the bottom portion of the vane, which affects the boundary layer. In addition, the bottom surface  16  might also be considered part of the base  14 , if the bottom surface  16  is used to couple the vortex generator  10  to an article. 
     In  FIGS. 10A and 10B , the vane includes a bottom portion  18 , which includes a dart-polygon configuration. In this instance, the dart-polygon configuration is defined by the periphery edges  20 ,  22 ,  24 , and  26  of the bottom surface  16  depicted in  FIG. 10B . Some of these edges can also be seen in each of  FIGS. 10A-10C . 
     In  FIG. 10B , edges  20  and  22  intersect at vertex  28 ; edges  20  and  24  intersect at a vertex  30 ; edges  22  and  26  intersect at a vertex  32 ; and edges  24  and  26  intersect at a vertex  34 . Generally, the dart-polygon configuration of the bottom surface  16  includes a first convex portion  36 , a second convex portion  38 , and a third convex  40 . In this context, the term convex describes an interior angle of a polygon that is less than 180 degrees (i.e., convex interior angle). In addition, the dart-polygon configuration of the bottom surface  16  includes a concave portion  42 , and in this context, concave describes an interior angle of the polygon that is greater than 180 degrees (i.e., concave interior angle). An angle of the first convex portion  36  is greater than the respective angles of the second and third convex portions  38  and  40 , which are substantially similar. 
     The dart-polygon configuration might be defined at least in part by angles of the convex interior portion  36  and the concave interior portion  42 . Referring to  FIG. 10B , in one aspect, the concave portion  42  includes an angle that is in a range of about 300 degrees to about 305 degrees. And in one further aspect, the angle of concave portion  42  is about 302.16 degrees. In another aspect, the convex interior portion  36  is in a range of about 35 degrees to about 40 degrees. In an additional aspect, the convex interior portion  36  is defined by an angle of about 38.8 degrees. 
     In  FIGS. 10A-10D , the periphery edges  20 ,  22 ,  24 , and  26  also form corners or edges of the vortex generator  10  at which walls of the vortex generator meet the bottom surface  16 . For example, a side wall  44  extends from the edge  20 , and another side wall  45  ( FIG. 10C ) extends from the edge  22 . For descriptive purposes, the walls  44  and  45  might be referred to as external walls or external side walls. The external side walls  44  and  45  that extend from edges  20  and  22  meet at another edge  46 , which also intersects with the edges  20  and  22  at the vertex  28 . In a further aspect, a wall  48  extends from the edge  26 , and another wall  50  extends from the edge  24  and meets the wall  48  at an edge  52 . For descriptive purposes the walls  48  and  50  might be referred to as internal walls or internal side walls. The edge  52  intersects with the edges  24  and  26  at the vertex  36 . These internals side walls  48  and  50  and edges  24  and  26  form a concave portion of the vortex generator. 
     The vortex generator  10  might be defined by various dimensions, such as a height, length, width, and the like. These dimensions might be defined independently, or might be defined as ratios of one another. For example the vortex generator  10  might include a height  68 , which is defined at least in part by a length of the edge  46  extending between the vertices  28  and  60 . In a further example, the vortex generator  10  includes a length  70  defined at least in part by a distance between the vertex  28  and a reference line  72  connecting the vertices  30  and  32 . In addition, a width might be defined as a distance between the vertex  30  and the vertex  32 . In one aspect, the vortex generator includes a height to length ratio in a range of about 2:5 to about 2.5:5. And in a further aspect, the vane includes a length to width ratio in a range of about 5:3.5 to about 5.3:3.7. 
     The vortex generator  10  also includes a top surface  54  that is generally concave and that is depicted in  FIGS. 10A and 10D . The top surface  54  is generally defined by a first curved edge  56  and a second curved edge  58 , each of which forms a top edge of a respective external side wall  44  and  45 . The curved edge  56  intersects with edge  20  at vertex  30 , and the curved edge  58  intersects with edge  22  at vertex  32 . In addition, both of the edges  56  and  58  intersect with one another and with edge  46  at a vertex  60 . The top surface  54  is also generally defined by a third curved edge  62  and a second curved edge  64 , each of which forms a top edge of a respective internal side wall  48  and  50 . The curved edge  62  intersects with edges  58 ,  22 , and  26  and at vertex  32 , and the curved edge  64  intersects with edges  56 ,  20 , and  24  at vertex  30 . In addition, both of the edges  62  and  64  intersect with one another and with edge  52  at a vertex  66 . 
     The top surface  54  might include various dimensions that define at least part of the vortex generator  10 . For example, in one aspect, the top surface is generally concave and a curve of the top surface includes a simple curve having a substantially constant radius. In an alternative aspect, the curve of the top surface is a compound curve and includes curves having different radii. For example, a first curve having a first arc radius might extend from the vertices  30  and  32  to a mid-point of the top surface aligned with vertex  66 , and a second curve having a second arc radius might extend form the mid-point to the vertex  60 . In one aspect, the first arc radius is in a range of about 10.00 mm to about 11.27 mm and the second arc radius is in a range of about 6.9 mm to about 8.3 mm. 
     The vortex generator depicted in  FIGS. 10A-10D  is illustrated to include relatively sharp features. For example, the edges  20 ,  26 ,  56 , and  58  ( FIG. 10A ) are depicted as corners with minimal rounding, and the vertices  30 ,  32 , and  60  are depicted as coming to a relatively sharp point. But in other aspects, each of these elements might be rounded or chamfered without departing from the scope of the claimed subject matter. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 11 , another aspect of a vortex generator  10 B is depicted in which the vane  12  depicted in  FIGS. 10A-10D  is coupled on top of a base plate  14 B. That is, base plate  14 B is a layer of material that is sized to substantially cover the bottom surface  16  depicted in  FIG. 10B . In  FIG. 11 , the vane is identified by reference numeral  12 B. The base plate  14 B is illustrated to include a triangular shape, which substantially aligns with the vertices  30 ,  32 , and  28 . But in other aspects, the base plate  14 B might be circular, ovular, rectangular, or some other shape. In addition, the base plate  14 B might include a thickness that falls in a range of thicknesses between about 0.25 mm and 0.5 mm. Furthermore, the base plate might extend beyond the footprint of the vane, as depicted by a vortex generator  10 D in  FIG. 12 , which includes a base  14 D that extends beyond the footprint of the vane  12 B. 
     In one aspect, the vane  12 B and the base plate  14 B are integrally formed as a single part. For instance, the vane  12 B and the base plate  14 B might be co-molded, sequentially molded, or cast together as a single part. In  FIG. 11 , reference line  74  is depicted to illustrate an approximate interface between the vane  12 B (i.e., the bottom portion  18  of the vane  12 ) and the base plate  14 B. In one aspect, the vortex generator is defined in part by a cross-sectional plane at the interface. For instance, at the cross-sectional plane at the interface between the vane  12 B and the base plate  14 B, a cross-sectional view of the vane  12 B includes the dart-polygon configuration depicted in  FIG. 10B . 
     The base plate  14 B serves various functions. For instance, in one aspect the base plate  14 B provides structural rigidity to the bottom portion  18  of the vane  12 B by coupling one vertex  30  to another vertex  32 . In this respect, the base plate  14 B helps to bridge a gap between these vertices in the concave portion of the vane  12 B. In addition, the base plate  14 B helps to provide an increased surface area for coupling the vortex generator  10 B to an article. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 13 and 14 , another aspect of a vortex generator  10 C is illustrated in which a base plate  14 C is arranged within the concave portion of the vane  12 C. That is, the base plate  14 C extends between the internal walls  48  and  50  and bridges the space therebetween. In one aspect, the vane  12 C and the base plate  14 C are integrally formed as a single part, such as by co-molding or casting together. For example,  FIG. 14  illustrates a bottom elevation of the vortex generator  10 C. 
     Although the vane  12 C and the base  14 C might be integrated as a single part,  FIG. 14  includes a reference line  76 , which indicates an approximate outline of the base plate  14 C. That is, lines  78 ,  80 ,  82 , and  84  are substantially similar to the edges  20 ,  22 ,  24 , and  26 , and the reference line marks an approximate interface between the vane  12 C and the base plate  14 C. In an aspect in which the vane  12 C and the base plate  14 C are integrally formed as a single part, there might not be a clear delineation between the two portions, and the reference line  76  is provided for explanatory purposes. As described above, a base-plate portion  86  bridges a gap between the edges  82  and  84 , and corresponding walls. Thus, the base plate  14 C helps to provide some structural rigidity and increases the surface area usable to attach the vortex generator  10 C to an article. 
     In  FIG. 14 , the reference line  76  illustrates an approximate division between the base-plate portion  86  and the bottom portion  88  of the vane  12 C. As illustrated, the bottom portion  88  includes a dart-polygon configuration that is substantially similar to the dart-polygon configuration depicted in  FIG. 10B . 
     The vortex generators  10 B and  10 C depicted in  FIGS. 11-14  are illustrated to include relatively sharp and non-rounded features. But in other aspects, edges, corners, and vertices, might be rounded without departing from the scope of the claimed subject matter. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 15 and 16 , an arrangement  800  of vortex generators  810 A,  810 B, and  810 C is shown (e.g., star-shaped arrangement). In  FIG. 15 , the arrangement  800  includes a center point  812  and the vortex generators  810 A,  810 B, and  810 C are radially positioned around the center point  812 . That is, each vortex generator includes a respective midline plane  814 A,  814 B, and  814 C, and the midline planes intersect at the center point of the arrangement  800 . As such, the vortex generators  810 A,  810 B, and  810 C are arranged in a ring around the center point  812 . 
     The arrangement  800  of vortex generators  810 A,  810 B, and  810 C might be configured to include a spacing scheme. For example, each vertex of the vortex generators  810 A,  810 B, and  810 C might be spaced a distance from the center point  812 . In one aspect, the distance between the center point  812  and each vertex is in a range of about 0.5 mm to about 1.5 mm. In addition, the spacing scheme might include a substantially even radial spacing between adjacent vortex generators. For example, in  FIG. 15 , the midline of each adjacent vortex generators might be spaced about 120 degrees apart, since there are three vortex generators. In  FIG. 15 , the arrangement  800  includes three separate vortex generators. In other aspects, the arrangement of vortex generators might include two vortex generators or might include more than three vortex generators. As such, the radial spacing of adjacent vortex generators might be substantially equal to 360 degrees divided by the number of vortex generators in the arrangement. 
     The vortex generators  810 A,  810 B, and  810 C are depicted as independent vortex generators having respective bases and base plates, and the arrangement  800  might be created using a template (e.g., step  714  of method  700 ). However, in other aspects the vortex generators  810 A,  810 B, and  810 C might be constructed as a single, integrated unit, such that each base or base plate is connected to one another. 
     In one aspect, arranging two or more vortex generators radially around a midpoint (as illustrated in  FIG. 15 ) helps to reduce drag of an underlying article from multiple directions. For example, when a person is running, throwing, etc., his or her arms and legs might be moving in more than one direction. That is, both arms are often pumped forward and rearward in an alternating fashion. In addition, each leg experiences a forward motion when the leg is extended and a rearward motion when the foot is pulled up from the ground. By arranging multiple vortex generators at different orientations on an article (e.g., arm sleeve, leg sleeve, pant leg, adhesive tape, etc.), which is worn by the person running, one vortex generator can help to reduce drag when the arm and/or leg is moved in a first direction, whereas another vortex generator can help reduce drag when the arm and/or leg is moved in a different direction. 
     In a further aspect, multiple sets of radially arranged vortex generators are applied to a surface in a pattern. For example,  FIG. 17  shows an exemplary arrangement of multiple sets  800 A,  800 B, and  800 C of vortex generators. In an exemplary aspect, the sets  800 A,  800 B, and  800 C include an arrangement similar to that depicted in  FIG. 15 . The sets  800 A,  800 B, and  800 C might be spaced and aligned using various strategies to minimize drag. For example, the respective center points (e.g.,  812 ) might be aligned vertically, horizontally, or diagonally on the surface, and might be spaced apart by a prescribed distance. The illustrative pattern depicted in  FIG. 17  might be applied to the anterior surface of various types of articles, and in one aspect, is applied to the outer surface of the anterior side of a calf sleeve. 
       FIGS. 9-17  depict vortex generators having a dart-shaped configuration, which is utilized in some aspects of the present invention. However, vortex generators having various other configurations might be used in other aspects of the invention, such as those configurations depicted in  FIGS. 18A-18N . For instance,  FIG. 18A  depicts a ring-like donut configuration for a vortex generator.  FIG. 18B  depicts bump-style configuration that is part of a hemisphere.  FIG. 18C  depicts a multi-sail arrangement, and  FIG. 18D  depicts a teardrop-shaped configuration for a vortex generator.  FIG. 18E  depicts a frustoconical configuration.  FIG. 18F  depicts a spherical configuration.  FIG. 18G  depicts a possible paddle configuration.  FIG. 18H  depicts another style of dart configuration having a non-curved upper surface.  FIG. 18I  includes a spike or peg configuration.  FIG. 18J  depicts a upside down pyramid.  FIG. 18K  depicts a multi-peg configuration.  FIG. 18L  depicts a fin-shaped configuration.  FIG. 18M  illustrates a dimple configuration. And  FIG. 18N  shows a ribbed configuration. One or more of these vortex-generator configurations might be used in one or more aspects of the present invention. 
     Various aspects of the present invention are described in  FIGS. 1-18N . One or more of these aspects are usable independently, or are combinable to provide, a system for reducing drag on an object. In one aspect, the system includes a first vortex-generator arrangement (e.g., using one or more of the patterns  120 ,  122 ,  124 ,  126 ) coupled to a first article (e.g., garment, tape, equipment, etc.), the first vortex-generator arrangement comprising a first set of vortex generators having a first substantially consistent spacing and a first substantially consistent vortex-generator height. In addition, the system includes a second vortex-generator arrangement coupled to a second article, the second vortex-generator arrangement comprising a second set of vortex generators having a second substantially consistent spacing and a second substantially consistent vortex-generator height. In a further aspect, the second substantially consistent spacing is different than the first substantially consistent spacing and/or the second vortex-generator height is different than the first vortex-generator height. 
     In another aspect, one or more of the aspects depicted in  FIGS. 1-18N  are usable to provide a vortex-generator kit including a first article (e.g. garment, tape, or equipment) having a first vortex-generator arrangement and a second article having a second vortex-generator arrangement. The first and second articles are configured to equip one or more human anatomical zones with vortex generators. The first vortex-generator arrangement includes a first set of vortex generators having a first substantially consistent spacing and a first substantially consistent vortex-generator height, and the second vortex-generator arrangement includes a second set of vortex generators having a second substantially consistent spacing and a second substantially consistent vortex-generator height. The first and second substantially consistent spacing and the first and second substantially consistent vortex-generator height are based on a vortex-generator mapping (e.g., one of the mappings  100 ,  200 ,  300 , or  400 ). 
     From the foregoing, it will be seen that this invention is one well adapted to attain all the ends and objects hereinabove set forth together with other advantages, which are inherent to the structure. 
     It will be understood that certain features and subcombinations are of utility and may be employed without reference to other features and subcombinations. This is contemplated by and is within the scope of the claims. 
     Since many possible embodiments may be made of the invention without departing from the scope thereof, it is to be understood that all matter herein set forth or shown in the accompanying drawings is to be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.