Super computer for Formula One simulations

In December, the BMW Sauber F1 Team launched Albert2, the new super computer, at the team's Hinwil headquarters. According to Mario Theissen, the simulation work that can be carried out with Albert2 represents a major step forward.

"If you want to catch the big players, the experienced players, the established ones, then you have to think out of the box. If you do everything like they do it, then, in the best case you will only close in," said Mario Theissen, explaining the new super computer's significance for the BMW Sauber F1 Team.

According to the current super computer top-500 list, Albert2 is the fastest industrially used computer in Europe. An advantage the BMW Sauber F1 Team is determined to make full use of.

Theissen knows from experience that computer simulations are of major importance. "I started my professional career at BMW 30 years ago, as a computational engineer, working on engine simulations. The big difference (compared to real testing) is that you not only get results but you get an understanding of what goes on. It is curcial to understand why something is happening and not only to observe that it is happening," he reveals.

For this reason, Albert2 will be a key factor for the BMW Sauber F1 Team's future. The super computer will enable the team to run through many options without having to carry out extensive wind tunnel tests.

Nonetheless, Theissen stresses that the team's sophisticated wind tunnel will remain a vital component for design and development work. "I think you will always need wind tunnels for several reasons," the BMW Motorsport Director admits. "You always have to do a validation. You might make two, three or even 10 steps in simulation, but then you have to check to ensure you still are on track."

"Even if computers become much more powerful than they are now, there will always be things that you can do easier in the wind tunnel," adds Theissen. "So the best approach is to go for a combination of both."