Automotive Aerodynamics

Automotive aerodynamics is the study of the aerodynamics of road vehicles. Its main goals are reducing drag and wind noise, minimizing noise emission, and preventing undesired lift forces and other causes of aerodynamic instability at high speeds. Air is also considered a fluid in this case. For some classes of racing vehicles, it may also be important to produce downforce to improve traction. In this challenge, you will not only learn about how build and design a race car but will also realize how the design the surface of a car can help minimize drag and improve its motion through the air for better performance.

Research - Rail Car Build

Research - Rail Car Build Accessories

Research - Rail Car Flow Simulator

Bleh.mp4

(This image as well as the data pictured below is a very different result than what was expected in the tutorial)

Custom Car Build

Custom Car Build - Brainstorming and Discussion

(The discussion heavily impacted the design of the car allowing it to be more aerodynamic and lighter.)

Original Design

Custom Car Build - Designing/Redesigning, Surface Plot, & Flow Simulation

Currently Missing:

Custom Car Surface Plot
Custom Car Flow Simulator

Custom Car Build - Final Product

Finished Car & Drawing

Custom Car Build - Races

IMG_3791.MOV

1st Race

IMG_3792.MOV

2nd Race

IMG_3795.MOV

3rd Race

Car Times and Info

Custom Car Build - Calculations

Maximum Velocity Calculations

1st race was 2.327 seconds (42.433 MPH)
2nd race was 2.321 seconds (42.523 MPH)
3rd race was 2.408 seconds (41.265 MPH)
4th race was 2.215 seconds (44.183 MPH)

Test Print

Axel Test Print

The two pictures shown to the left are of the test print that was conducted. The purpose of the pirnt was to test if the axel could fit in the axel holes. The axel holes were printed to be 5mm, they were then changed after this print due to large amount of space.

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