Investigation of 2004 Ferrari Formula One race car wing effects

Abstract

This work numerically examines the influences of 2004 Ferrari Formula One race car wing (spoiler) destructions on the overall race car aerodynamics characteristics which are believed to have direct connection to 2004 Ferrari Formula One race car accidents. Based on current study, the pressure distribution on the race car has been analyzed. Also, it has been proven that the installation of the front, side, and rear wings produce a stabilizing down-force on the race car. When one of these wings is destroyed, the vertical force distribution on the race car may change dramatically. If the front wing is broken, the air can no longer be diverted and therefore it flows over the race car. If the rear wing is broken, the loss of its downforce reduces the traction and road grip. This reduction in tire traction can be very dangerous when the race car is braking or turning. With undesired road conditions, it is very likely that the race car may overturn triggered by the unbalance of vertical forces. If the side wing falls off during high speed racing, the air will flow towards the rear wheel and less over the rear wing causing a decrease in drag on rear wing.