Aerodynamics
OVERVIEW
Deputy Team Leader
2014-2015
Team Leader
2015-2016
Star CCM+
Solidworks
Formula Student External Aerodynamics
Drag reduction
Cooling
Aesthetics
WORK
Overview
This study of work was carried out as part of my 3rd year independent study module. Aerodynamics have always been an interest of mine, I wanted to contribute towards Formula Student and give a good base for future developments, given this was the team's first car. It was therefore important that I carried out research on both aerodynamic design and CFD simulation - to ensure the simulation was reliable.
Focus
Unlike many other Formula Student teams, this project focused on drag reduction, and not the creation of downforce.
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This was due to the lack of initial data in terms of vehicle performance, without data to compare against, justifying the extra weight of aerodynamic devices to reduce lap time was not possible, given the lack of a 'delta'.
Method
The first stage of the project was to validate the software (CD-Adapco Star CCM+). Validation was carried out with a study of an Ahmed body, comparing against experimental data.
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With physics, mesh and simulation settings established a simplified 'CFD CAD model' was created.
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Extensive research into vehicle body design led to modifications to the model to achieve the aims set out.