James_graham wrote:Now that is interesting! What formula car was that on? Where can the air be directed to??
This is a student formula car (still very fast, and very influenced by air). Oregon State University (Formula SAE).
Directing air: Well, wheels are a very influential part of any open-wheel racecar. They account for around 1/3 of total drag at speed. Once you calculate the frontal area of a formula style car, you will easily understand why (mainly because the wheels are most of the FA). The gaps formed via the rims create crazy circulation zones and ultimately affect the flow downstream. Directing the air via some device on the front wheels can be incredibly useful. Perhaps to modify the air going under the car, or maybe towards the rear wheels (shorter wheel-base can create a higher static-pressure point on the rear wheel, which can reduce the object's lift). Covers over the rim-gaps (randomly made that name up, lol), might smooth the flow outside the wheel, but may cause turbulence more inboard. It's all really complicated though.
There is only so much I can say, given my experiences. If you want to talk more about it just contact me
acasson8@gmail.com
