25 November 2010

Engineering simulation revs up Red Bull Racing

Engineering simulation has become critical to Formula One, since testing restrictions were introduced ahead of the 2009 season, according to this year's Constructors' Championship winner Red Bull.

"The time we can devote to physical testing is extremely limited," comments Steve Nevey, business development manager.

"Under these restrictions, we have turned to software from ANSYS to virtually optimise the aerodynamics of our cars, which has emerged as a key factor in winning championships. We can quickly put new designs on the track because the predictions are so accurate," he explains.

In fact, CFD (computational fluid dynamics) is enabling Red Bull to simulate air flows around, in and through its car designs, under a range of changing conditions. And the technology is also being applied to optimise components, such as braking, cooling and exhaust systems.

"In the past, we introduced a design in March and maybe made two or three updates throughout the season," comments Nevey. "Today, the F1 circuit is so competitive that we're iterating new ideas all the time, to suit different track configurations and driving conditions. If we stopped updating the car, we'd very quickly find our competitors passing us."

Author
Brian Tinham

Supporting Information

Companies
Ansys UK Ltd

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