Technical : Aerodynamics
Due to the little development areas left for engine improvements, aerodynamics are now the most important area for improving the performance of a Formula One car. The modelling is nowadays so complex that some teams have more than 100 people employed to design aero bits to improve the car's efficiency.
The study of aerodynamics influences the way a car cuts through air, aiming to reduce its drag while at the same time adding downforce. All teams are continuously introducing updates, even for gains as small as hundredths of seconds per lap. Such small gains are currently designed and modelled with CFD software, running on ever improving computer grids. After scale production, the elements are tested in state-of-the-art wind tunnels after which final production can start.
- Aerodynamics in racing 14-05-2009
Aerodynamics is the science that studies objects moving through air. It is closely related to fluid dynamics as air is considered a compressible fluid. Nowadays, aerodynamics is the utmost
- The final result of the regulation changes 25-03-2009
Formula One cars have changed considerably because of the regulation changes. While the new bounding box and possibilities are clear, we take a look at what the designers have finally come up with.
- Visualising the aerodynamic rules of 2009 18-02-2009
It is no longer a surprise that aerodynamic regulations have changed considerably for the 2009 Formula One cars. Apart from simpler aerodynamics, there is also provision for more input from the drivers.
- Wind tunnels still play a critical role in a car's success on the track 06-12-2008
Modern day F1 cars are now more sophisticated than ever and to be a successful team requires the use of the latest tools like wind tunnels.
- A necessity in F1: the wind tunnel 07-02-2008
A modern bespoke wind tunnel is a necessity rather than a luxury in Formula 1. McLaren has a fully enclosed wind tunnel at the McLaren Technology Centre, which has been built exclusively for the team’s use and has been operational since 2001.
In focus
More articles in "Aerodynamics"
| 09-01-2008 | What do we understand by aerodynamics in F1? |
| 09-01-2008 | CFD discussed by Honda's Henrik Diamant |
| 20-08-2007 | Toyota's view on aerodynamics |
| 10-01-2007 | The Honda wind tunnel |
| 06-09-2006 | The importance of aerodynamics |
| 25-10-2005 | The FIA's new CDG wing |
| 14-02-2004 | CFD simulation at Williams |
| More articles... |
