Optimising F1 in Schools Car Design Using CFD Simulation and Wind Tunnel Testing for Enhanced Aerodynamic Performance

Mohd Hanif Mat Muhammad; Ramlan Kasiran; Nurzaki Ikhsan; Mohamad Nur Afendi  Mohamed Den

doi:10.24191/jaeds.v4i1.77

Authors

Mohd Hanif Mat Muhammad School of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam, 40450 Selangor, Malaysia
Ramlan Kasiran School of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam, 40450, Selangor,Malaysia
Nurzaki Ikhsan School of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam, 40450, Selangor, Malaysia
Mohamad Nur Afendi Mohamed Den School of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam, 40450 Selangor, Malaysia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.24191/jaeds.v4i1.77

Keywords:

CFD, F1 in Schools, drag force, aerodynamic, wind tunnel

Abstract

F1 in Schools, a STEM competition for students, fosters collaborative design and manufacturing of the fastest miniature cars inspired by Formula 1 racing. To achieve the fastest car, the design must be optimised to reduce drag as much as possible. This paper focuses on optimising drag force, a key determinant of speed and stability. Through CFD simulations, various design iterations were evaluated. Each change was made based on targeting airflow obstructions and flow separation. A wind tunnel experiment was conducted to verify the results obtained through CFD. Results show that modifications significantly reduced drag force by 9.89%. Insights from this study underscore the importance of iterative design processes. Further enhancements could involve analysing pressure distribution and lift force to maximise thrust utilisation and improve race performance.

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