Experimental-numerical investigation of aerodynamics effects produced by the rear wing mainplane deformation in a formula 1 racing vehicle

This paper describes an experimental and numerical activity investigating the effects on the aerodynamics performance of a Formula 1 vehicle rear wing achieved through the mainplane deformation at high speeds. The primary objective was to show and elucidate the ways in which incorporating a flexible wing can improve vehicle performance at high speeds by mitigating aerodynamic loads. In particular, this study was particularly focused on drag reduction. A 1:2 scaled model of a F1 vehicle rear wing equipped with an interchangeable rigid and deformable mainplane was developed and tested in a wind tunnel. Aerodynamic forces were measured with a six-component external balance along with mainplane deformation via a motion tracking system. To gain insights into the physics of the problem, numerical simulations were performed over the rigid and deformed configuration measured by wind tunnel tests. The experimental and numerical results showed how the deformation of the mainplane can reduce the drag and enhance the performance of the rear wing at high velocity. The results of this study indicate the potential effectiveness of mainplane deformation on vehicle aerodynamic performance particularly on straights, where it is more important to maximize speed rather than the aerodynamic loads generated.