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The Use of Performance-Simulation Maps to Improve Lap Times through Wind Tunnel Testing
Technical Paper
2004-01-3523
ISSN: 0148-7191, e-ISSN: 2688-3627
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English
Abstract
During the wind-tunnel development of racing vehicles, modifications are made to the vehicles in an effort to minimize lap times. The optimal configuration is usually a function of the chassis, powertrain and track; so several different aerodynamic configurations are required to maximize performance throughout a season.
The results of a wind tunnel test are typically drag and lift measurements but the desired information is the change in lap time. This paper proposes a method to relate wind tunnel measurements to on-track results using a simple performance simulation. Though relatively straightforward, this technique has been observed to improve the efficiency and outcome of several wind tunnel tests.