A Study of the Validity of Fixed-Ground Testing for Formula 1 Racing Cars

An experimental study of a ground-effect vehicle has been performed using a scale model in a wind tunnel with moving ground plane and in a second tunnel with a fixed floor. The diagnostic techniques used included force-balance measurements and surface - pressure measurements on the underside of the model. The analysis and comparison of the two different data sets has provided information on the aerodynamic efficiency of the ground-effect shape as well as a tool for quantifying the effect of a moving floor. In addition, a directional pitot probe was used to obtain the pressure and velocity fields at various locations in the wake of the model. Maps of longitudinal velocity component and total-pressure loss coefficient permit an identification of the wake shape and structure which has led to better understanding of the aerodynamic features of the model.