Expert: Adam - 1/7/2009

Question
um c i m a student in school n i m takin part in a competition called f1 in schools n i m tryin to get more info on f1 aerodynamics.u c,this competition is actually about a team of 3-6 creating their own mini f1 model car n bring it to race on the competition day.we don't use engines but we use some kind of a cylinder carbon for speed.n the car if i m not wrong its made out of wood i guees,anyway pls tell me how to create the best aerodynamic shape for our f1 model...

Answer
Hello Michael, I just got your question, thanks for it.

There are several books on this topic which I am sure your local library could get in for you. I have cited the references below. These should be helpful for you.

One thing, an F1 'profile' won't necessarily be the fastest. F1 cars' shapes are tightly goverened by rules covering dimensions, weights and engine/tyres/brakes etc etc, so an "F1 shape" is only an optimal one for the set of regulations applying at that particular time, they are constantly chaning in any case.

Also, aerodynamic efficiencies need high speed to work properly on an F1 car. At lower speeds a different shape will almost certainly be more efficeint.

Anyway, a few thoughts for you.

Formula 1 Technical Analysis 2006-07 (Paperback)
by Giorgio Piola (Author)

The Science of Formula 1 Design: Expert Analysis of the Anatomy of the Modern Grand Prix Car (2nd edition) (Hardcover)
by David Tremayne (Author)

Race Car Aerodynamics: Designing for Speed (Technical (including tuning & modifying)) (Paperback)
by Joseph Katz (Author)

Competition Car Aerodynamics: A Practical Handbook (Hardcover)
by Simon McBeath (Author)

Regards and good luck with the project,
Adam