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Red Bull connect shark fin to rear wing

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As the teams are coming out with their final Melbourne aerodynamic packages, Red Bull once again drew all the spots to itself with a new type of shark fin never seen before. While all previous versions could be considered an extension of the engine cover, the new one actually connects to the rear wing. The element stretches up to the maximum height of the car, connecting the top of the airbox with the midpoint of the upper rear wing element. As such, the rear wing is effectively split in two halves and therefore even more efficient under yaw. The initial aim is only improved, and it's probably just a matter of time before others will show up with similar designs.

Comments

By wesley123 on 12-03-2009 at 07:48

Tho you could expect it it is still interesting. By this the negative effects of the fin are removed/reduced, so i will see alot of other teams using this.

By stevedubya on 12-03-2009 at 10:43

This'll be quite interesting in strong-ish side winds, as there's going to be some airflow disruption on the rear wing either side of the fin. However, I believe Mr Newey know a lot more about this than I do, so I'll watch developments with interest.

By stiletto on 12-03-2009 at 23:51

I have to agree about the side winds, especially in high speed corners, but I also agree that they have probably thought of that.

By Gecko on 13-03-2009 at 08:39

It's precisely in side winds that the fin would help keep the flow going over the rear wing in an appropriate way. Side wind is equivalent to yaw, and that's what the fin is about, yaw stability, as the article explains.

By Sikthskies on 13-03-2009 at 12:55

Surely in a straight line it would act like a sail? Maybe the lower ends plates help minimize its effect?

By stiletto on 13-03-2009 at 13:50

I have to agree about the side winds, especially in high speed corners, but I also agree that they have probably thought of that.

By stiletto on 13-03-2009 at 13:55

I wonder why my post showed up twice?

Gecko I see what you are saying, even with a 30 mph wind the fin would stabilize the flow of a car traveling 75 mph or so.

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