Not so fast!

This article considers the design of Formula One racing cars. Aerodynamic design means that the leading car creates a lot of turbulence in its wake which makes it difficult for following cars to overtake. The governing body plans to change the rules for design to introduce split rear wings that extend over the rear wheels, producing a reduced area of turbulence behind the car and enabling a following car to produce more downforce. However, previous design rule changes have not improved performance long-term. An alternative would be to use "ground force" aerodynamics - an increase in downforce that occurs when an aerofoil acts close to the ground: but this led to increased crashes in the past. It is noted that designers are unlikely to support innovations which reduce their competitiveness.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/issn/09536639
• Authors:
  • Butler, R
• Publication Date: 2005-11-9

Language

• English

Media Info

• Pagination: 37-8
• Serial:
  • PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING
  • Volume: 18
  • Issue Number: 20
  • Publisher: WOODBRIDGE PRESS
  • ISSN: 0953-6639

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Aerodynamic components; Design; Flow; Fluid dynamics; Force; Race cars
• Subject Areas: Design; Vehicles and Equipment; I91: Vehicle Design and Safety;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01038154
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: TRL
• Files: ITRD
• Created Date: Dec 19 2006 10:30AM