Aerodynamic study of the CDG concept

[coysht]

Came across this article about an aerodynamic study done on the Centreline Downwash Generating (GDG) Wing that the FIA proposed, originally for the 2008 season.

This analysis was conducted using the CAD model the FIA designed as a generic 2008 spec car and the results make for quite interesting reading.

F1 Technical

[Nova]

Really interesting, thx..

[Nova]

I find the conclusion interesting...
Conclusion

Although the analysis proved useful and highlighted several issues that may arise during the 2008 season at a separation of one car length, it would be worthwhile studying the wake of the leading car at more lengths behind the car and investigate its development while it moves away. Such analysis can indicate on what may happen when the car is run at different separation lengths. Moreover, lots of effort can be put in the development of front wings that would minimise the effect of the on coming flow on the under body down-force.

Another solution to promoting more overtaking, on top of the CDG wing, could be the use of moveable aero devices. Such devices can help further reduce drag on long straights and can minimise the effect of oncoming flow by the lead car. Indeed the new rules have opened doors for new aerodynamic research and development; however teams paying the closest attention towards this would be able to stay in front.

[Liscia]

Just found this today! Great read and thanks for posting it coysht.
So is it final that F1 has to adopt these box-wings next year? They
are very unattractive and as I understood it they give and take pertinent
factors (a wash) and may not be as effective as the FIA hopes?

[vagos]

I find the conclusion interesting...
Conclusion

Another solution to promoting more overtaking, on top of the CDG wing, could be the use of moveable aero devices. Such devices can help further reduce drag on long straights and can minimise the effect of oncoming flow by the lead car. Indeed the new rules have opened doors for new aerodynamic research and development; however teams paying the closest attention towards this would be able to stay in front.

well i think that these movable aero devices need a lot of research and as a result a lot more money in investement wehich means that this factor might widden a lot more the gap between the teams with a lot of money and the teams with limited budget... (that was just a thought that passed through my mind now)

[coysht]

Just found this today! Great read and thanks for posting it coysht.
So is it final that F1 has to adopt these box-wings next year? They
are very unattractive and as I understood it they give and take pertinent
factors (a wash) and may not be as effective as the FIA hopes?

Its still under consultation, and I believe the earliest date it can be put in is going back every time its discussed.

I would be highly surprised if they forced it through any time soon, and TBH really hope that they don't at all, partly because its ugly, and partly because it appears not to make any difference!

[Liscia]

Your impressions are those that I came away with too.
I agree that movable aero devices should be considered-
what can you imagine these could be? As complicated as
hydraulic/pneumatic wing control on a chip (smart wing)?
So much in production cars are now smart or drive by wire
so why not in F1?