2 replies to this topic

[OO7]

Hello

Not too long ago the F.I.A/technical Working Group suggested using active suspension and moveable aerodynamic devices (namely wings) to allow F1 cars to follow one another more closely in corners. A couple of years ago I proposed the use of active suspension to balance the cars while in wake turbulence, but now I'm thinking that perhaps there is a better way to apply the 'moveable aerodynamic device' rule to solve the problem once and for all.
I saw a lot of comments in the Racing Comments Forum dismissing the ideas, personally I think we should be open to such suggestions. F1 is for a large part a technical exercise and I believe technology could solve the problem quite effectively.

The regs should stipulate (a) 1993-1994 specification floor and diffuser, or (b) a flat bottom with venturi tunnels a la Group C/IMSA GTP. Either of these specifications will allow for a great range of downforce to be generated by ground effect.

FIA mandated holes should be cut in the floor (In the case of (a) one under each sidepod, near the leading edge perhaps. In the case of (b) one under each sidepod, at the leading edge of the tunnels perhaps) and be exposed to standard atmosphere through an internal chimney with an opening at the top of each sidepod, or a passage with an opening in the side of each sidepod. The holes in the top and bottom of the sidepods are covered with gills (like those seen above front wheel arches in sportscars) or other devices which by opening and closing will significantly vary the pressure underneath the chassis.

The apertures mentioned above will be controlled electronically by F.I.A issued ECUs gills and turbulence sensors and or transponders that can in real time measure the distances between cars.

The purpose of the system is to maintain not exceed free air downforce levels and aerodynamic balance while in turbulence. In free air the gills will remain fully open, this is their standard position and the position for which teams would set their cars up around. As a car enters wake turbulence, sensors transmit data to the ECU, which will close the gills the necessary amount to maintain the level of downforce the car would experience in clean air.

Another benefit of the apertures is that by varying their size the F.I.A can control the basic levels of downforce in F1.


What do you think?

Obi

[softbatch]

Teams would spend a lot of money to decrease the amount of airflowing through those tubes. Probably having winglets infront of the holes on top of the body. Infact if they were to get the pressure over your intake holes low enough the cars could actually lose downforce when trailing a car.

[OO7]

The F.I.A could specific that the area infront of the holes to be unobstructed. Ducts or airbox/turbocharger style inlet scoops could be used to encourage air into the holes. Infact it could be entirely possible to have the duct as part of the engine airbox.

Obi