A. brief survey of vehicle dynamics and aerodynamics papers pertinent to open wheeled racing cars is presented. In this work, the aerodynamics of Indy cars have been studied from both a lift and drag point of view. A standardized definition of lifting area for ground effects vehicles and performance observations made through the use of radar and track simulations were used. Values for negative lift magnitude were determined, lifting area was photogrammetrically measured, and a lift coefficient appropriate for Indy cars was developed.Drag area, also obtained photogrammetrically, and drag coefficients were developed. Mechanical measurements of vehicles and wind tunnel experiments were used to estimate total drag and subsequent values for drag coefficients. These values correspond with energy balance calculations based on available engine power.A sensitivity study of the performance parameters of Indy cars was performed, with emphasis on enhancing top speed. The disparity of potential improvements possible through various engineering alternatives leads immediately to a design direction for future vehicles.


    Access

    Check access

    Check availability in my library

    Order at Subito €


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    Aerodynamic Properties of Indy Cars


    Additional title:

    Sae Technical Papers


    Contributors:

    Conference:

    Autotechnologies Conference and Exposition ; 1987



    Publication date :

    1987-01-20




    Type of media :

    Conference paper


    Type of material :

    Print


    Language :

    English




    Aerodynamic properties of Indy cars

    Metz,L.D. / Univ.of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign,US | Automotive engineering | 1987


    Indy 500:Shaping cars with composites

    Browning,R.J. | Automotive engineering | 1991


    Aerodynamic Effects of Indy Car Components

    Garcia, Darwin / Katz, Joseph | SAE Technical Papers | 2002


    Aerodynamic Effects of Indy Car Components

    Katz, J. / Garcia, D. / SAE | British Library Conference Proceedings | 2002


    Precision GTAW keeps Indy cars on track

    Kuvin, B.F. | Tema Archive | 1996