NEWPAN Full Scale Racecar Validation Studies
A high degree of confidence in the validity of its results has been built
up, not simply by referring to standard aerospace test cases, but by using
genuine racecar data.
Through consultancy involvement, extensive validation has been performed
with NEWPAN, using on-track racecar data-logger results and full- and sub-scale
wind tunnel data. Much of the data is company confidential, but the following
front and rear wing results can be presented.
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The figure below shows a comparison between NEWPAN and full scale
wind tunnel results for the upper elements of a complete Formula One rear
wing assembly.
(Click for larger image)
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Excellent agreement with experimental results was obtained by modelling
the entire test configuration. In addition to the upper and lower wing
elements and endplates, the mounting structure and the wind tunnel walls
were also modelled. After validation in the test configuration, NEWPAN
was used to enhance the value of the test further by quantifying the influence
of the support structure and tunnel walls on the rear wing assembly. Subsequent
modelling of the complete car allowed the influence of the rest of the
configuration to be included. Similar studies have also been performed
for the front wing assembly, showing good agreement with on-car track test
data.
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NEWPAN results have also been useful in highlighting inaccuracies in
other modelling techniques, most noticeably the problems inherent in small
scale wind tunnel testing. The integral boundary layer method allows a
rapid comparison between flowfield characteristics at model scale compared
to those at full scale. This helps to avoid the likelihood of unforeseen
problems on the racecar due to testing at lower Reynolds numbers, and allows
wind tunnel results or test procedures to be modified accordingly.
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