Downforce analysis of Formula 1 cars using CFD

Downforce analysis of Formula 1 cars using CFD

ABSTRACT:

Formula 1 racing is one of the world's most technologically sophisticated sports and is often viewed as a research test bed to stimulate innovation in areas of interest to the automotive industry. F1 racing car design is at the forefront of modern technology, and requires a substantial investment of knowledge, manpower as well as finance. In today’s technology it goes without saying that aerodynamic efficiency is extremely important to every formula 1 design team and even more so in the 1995 season, prior to which the FIA placed further restrictions on the aerodynamic performance of Grand Prix racecars. The latest Technical Regulations have sent the teams scurrying not only in the ongoing quest for down force, but also in efforts to minimize aerodynamic drag, by all possible means.
In these circumstances, the increasing use of ever more accessible Computational Fluid Dynamics software is extremely significant. CFD is a tool which, in the proper hands, can completely transform the capability of a racecar constructor for aerodynamic research and development. CFD enhances that capability because it allows the design engineers to exercise many, many more testing options during the design cycle.
To gain an idea of the potential impact of CFD, imagine, possessing the ability to put an aerodynamic concept through a very thorough test process, without actually having to build it. In terms of time-saving alone, the benefits are vast.
From concept to analysis, with CFD, the steps required are design, problem definition and simulation, and analysis of results. The traditional, experimental route additionally requires time-consuming manufacture of the component or a model, fitting, and the wind tunnel testing phase itself.
This paper will give you a brief outline of how the aerodynamic study of formula 1 cars are done using computational fluid dynamic analysis.


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