Use of Computational Fluid Dynamics for the Design of Formula SAE Race Car Aerodynamics

This paper presents design of aerodynamic downforce generating devices (front wing, rear wing and diffuser) to enhance the performance of the Formula Student Race Car using numerical and experimental studies. Numerical results using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) studies were primarily validated with the experimental results performed in the wind tunnel. It was concluded that the use of a downforce package can enhance the performance of the vehicle in the competition.

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Using Computational Fluid Dynamics for the Design, Assessment and Optimization of an Aerodynamic Body Kit on a Newly Designed Formula SAE Collegiate Competition Vehicle

10.4271/2019-01-0642 ◽

2019 ◽

Author(s):

Mohammed Alemara ◽

Morgan McCann ◽

Robert Fletcher ◽

Hussein Al-Qarishey ◽

Joshua Fine

Keyword(s):

Fluid Dynamics ◽

Computational Fluid Dynamics ◽

Design Assessment ◽

Formula Sae

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CFD Research and Investigation of 2011 P4/5 Competition Rear Wing

Applied Mechanics and Materials ◽

10.4028/www.scientific.net/amm.275-277.665 ◽

2013 ◽

Vol 275-277 ◽

pp. 665-671

Author(s):

Aldo Pugliese ◽

Zhi Gang Yang ◽

Qi Liang Li

Keyword(s):

Fluid Dynamics ◽

Computational Fluid Dynamics ◽

Angle Of Attack ◽

Critical Value ◽

Geometrical Model ◽

3D Mesh ◽

Race Car ◽

Rear Wing ◽

Computational Fluid Dynamics Simulations ◽

Dynamics Simulations

In order to analyze the influence of the rear wing of a competition race car on the aerodynamics of the whole vehicle, computational fluid dynamics simulations have been performed. Rear wing is set by two elements, a main plate and a flap. Their relative position and the angle of attack of these elements influence the aero- performances in terms of downforce and drag generated; 12 different configurations have been generated, modifying the angle of attack and the slot gap. 3D mesh has been generated from the geometrical model of the vehicle, and air flow around the vehicle and on the rear wing has been evaluated through a CFD commercial software. It has been proved that steeper angles of attack of the mainplate and of the flap contribute to generate more downforce until a certain point; when angle of attack reaches a critical value, the downforce no longer increases and the drag still keep high values.

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