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McLaren's front wing panel count up to 7

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Well it's more like 6.5, as Mclaren have added an extension in the central part of the main front wing panel. It also features a small gap similar to what BMW Sauber's front wing featured on several occasions this year. McLaren ran this wing only in combination with the new dumbo wings. On Friday, the cars were still fitted with the more conventional one.
Compared to the previous wing on top, you can clearly see the added surface on the high downforce version. Because of these characteristics - high downforce but also more drag - is is very unlikely that we will see this front wing again this year.

Comments

By wesley123 on 05-08-2008 at 17:33

Maybe they will cut the frontwing in 5 pieces so we do get an 7 plane front wing.

By freedom_honda on 06-08-2008 at 02:16

so whats the advantage for having so many panels?

By l4mbch0ps on 06-08-2008 at 06:54

obviously the effect of this particular slit is highly complex, and likely works in conjuction with several other parts to achieve it's true goal.

i think the fundamental theory behind split wings, however, is related to what's called "attached flows" air flow that is "attached" to the aerodynamic surface flows more smoothly and more quickly. This is a much more efficient flow, reducing drag. The air doesn't easily stay attached, however, and breaking the wing up into multiple surfaces allows for the air to flow over more surface area and remain attached.

Any aerodynamicists can feel free to correct me :D

By l4mbch0ps on 06-08-2008 at 07:49

obviously the effect of this particular slit is highly complex, and likely works in conjuction with several other parts to achieve it's true goal.

i think the fundamental theory behind split wings, however, is related to what's called "attached flows" air flow that is "attached" to the aerodynamic surface flows more smoothly and more quickly. This is a much more efficient flow, reducing drag. The air doesn't easily stay attached, however, and breaking the wing up into multiple surfaces allows for the air to flow over more surface area and remain attached.

Any aerodynamicists can feel free to correct me :D

By wesley123 on 06-08-2008 at 18:06

On formula1.com they said that the extra plane will cause more downforce and with the angle it will cause the air to flow to the deltawings and let it flow over the sidepod thus creating more front end sharpness and improving overal efficiency.

By Steven on 06-08-2008 at 22:20

Actually, the delta wings are there to straighten the airflow, instead of letting it flow over the sidepod.

By wesley123 on 07-08-2008 at 11:49

As i see the angle of the delta wings they are aimed to let the air flow over the sidepods, just take a look from the side and you will see.

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