The validity and usefulness of low-complexity “fast-turnaround CFD” for motorsports design is investigated using results from three different combined experimental and CFD analyses of racing or high-speed vehicles. Analyses using both wind tunnel experiments and CFD simulations (with commercial software and moderate computing resources) found good agreement in some aspects of interest over a variety of applied situations. Key results were the ability for relatively simple CFD models to consistently predict CL in complex flows within 15-25% of experimental findings, predict the effect of design changes on flow, and accurately show qualitative flow phenomenon. However, CD values were not accurately predicted with the low-complexity simulations. Simulations were run using the commercial Fluent© 6.3 application. Experimental results were performed in the Cornell University 4 by 4 foot wind-tunnel.The first investigation explored the development of front and rear wing packages for a formula-style race vehicle. After validation of Fluent© 6.3, basic 2D wing designs were optimized using CFD and tested in the wind-tunnel and on the track.The second investigation explored the aerodynamics of underbody-equipped bluff bodies in ground-effect flow. Focus was on the influence of multiple surrounding elements (wheels) on underbody diffuser performance. Flow phenomena, such as trailing-edge diffuser separation and vortex development, and how they are affected by wheels and their wakes are discussed.The third investigation explored flow structure predictions of motorcycle engines surrounded by interfering objects (wheel, forks, frame). CFD simulations isolated key factors influencing flow phenomenon and were useful in predicting the effects of modifications to the design.“Fast-turnaround CFD” was found to yield robust and sufficiently accurate results for varied aerodynamic configurations useful for applied vehicle design. It accurately calculated CL in multiple configurations (less than 25% error) as well as successfully modeled flow field dynamics for single and multiple body situations. This was done in 2D with low y+, and in 3D with high y+ value models which were relatively easy to mesh and run. Limitations with the approach, such as inability to accurately predict CD, are discussed.


    Access

    Check access

    Check availability in my library

    Order at Subito €


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    Experimental and CFD Comparative Case Studies of Aerodynamics of Race Car Wings, Underbodies with Wheels, and Motorcycle Flows


    Additional title:

    Sae Technical Papers



    Conference:

    Motorsports Engineering Conference & Exposition ; 2008



    Publication date :

    2008-12-02




    Type of media :

    Conference paper


    Type of material :

    Print


    Language :

    English




    Experimental and CFD Comparative Case Studies of Aerodynamics of Race Car Wings, Underbodies with Wheels, and Motorcycle Flows

    Desai, S. / Leylek, E. / Lo, C.-M.B. et al. | British Library Conference Proceedings | 2008


    MOTORCYCLE WITH ACTIVE AERODYNAMICS

    MARCHETTA FRANCESCO / LAMBRI MARCO | European Patent Office | 2022

    Free access

    MOTORCYCLE WITH IMPROVED AERODYNAMICS

    DE LUCA MARCO | European Patent Office | 2023

    Free access

    MOTORCYCLE WITH ACTIVE AERODYNAMICS

    MARCHETTA FRANCESCO / LAMBRI MARCO | European Patent Office | 2024

    Free access

    MOTORCYCLE WITH ACTIVE AERODYNAMICS

    MARCHETTA FRANCESCO / LAMBRI MARCO | European Patent Office | 2024

    Free access