How a Formula 1 Race Car Works

Aerodynamics

• Definition: Interaction of the car with air.
• Front Wing:
  • Curves upward, creating pressure difference (high above, low beneath).
  • Generates downforce (suction force that sticks car to track).
  • Wing tip caps reduce vortex formation, decreasing drag.
• Vortices:
  • Created where air crashes into itself at wing edges.
  • Useful to separate and seal airflow areas.
• Open Wheels:
  • Major source of turbulent air, complicating aerodynamics.
• Barge Boards:
  • Clean up airflow behind tires, pushing dirty air away from body.
• Car Floor:
  • Narrow gap with track enhances downforce.
  • Floor has forward rake for low pressure generation.
• Diffuser:
  • Amplifies downforce with upward curvature and vertical vanes.
• Rear Wing:
  • Critical downforce generator with notched end caps.
  • DRS (Drag Reduction System) tilts section to reduce downforce for speed.
• Regulations:
  • Future changes aim to improve racing dynamics and overtaking.

Core Structure

• Monocoque:
  • Carbon fiber shell that supports all systems.
  • No additional frame; components mounted directly.

Suspension

• Components:
  • Upper/lower wishbone arms, push/pull rods.
  • Front wishbones attached to monocoque; rear uses spherical bearings.
• Torsion Bar:
  • Replaces coiled springs; manages vertical travel.
• Heave System:
  • Manages vertical position for aerodynamics; uses flexible washers.
• Steering System:
  • Track rod links tires to hydraulic rack and pinion setup.
  • Rear suspension has track rod for vertical adjustment.
• Safety:
  • Wheel tethers ensure wheels remain attached during accidents.
  • Suspension parts usually made from carbon fiber for aerodynamics.

Braking System

• Hydraulic Control:
  • Master cylinders for front and rear brakes.
  • Electronically controlled brake bias screw.
• Cooling:
  • Brake ducts direct air for cooling.
  • Carbon-based brake discs with holes for cooling.
• MGU-K:
  • Part of braking system, recovers energy during braking.

Engine and Associated Systems

• Engine Specs:
  • 6-cylinder V configuration; flat pistons for high revs.
• Turbocharger:
  • Split design; exhaust gases drive turbine wheel.
  • Air compression and cooling handled in side pods.
• Hybrid System:
  • MGU-H and MGU-K generate electrical charge for battery.

Cooling Systems

• Radiators:
  • For engine, oil, and battery cooling.
• Fuel Cell:
  • Kevlar bladder, holds 30-40 gallons.
  • Internal baffles prevent fuel sloshing.

Gearbox

• 8-Speed Gearbox:
  • 7 forward gears plus reverse.
  • Special tripod joints for suspension movement.

Safety Systems

• Crash Structures:
  • Rear, side, and front crash structures for driver protection.
• Halo Device:
  • Added for extra driver safety; protects in rollover incidents.

Cockpit Design

• Driver Positioning:
  • Reclined seating, six-point harness for safety.
• HANS Device:
  • Limits head movement to protect during impacts.
• Drinks Tube:
  • Keeps drivers hydrated during races.

Steering Wheel Features

• Shape and Functionality:
  • Customizable display; various controls for real-time adjustments.
  • Paddles for gear shifting; separate clutch paddles for race starts.

Sensors and Technology

• Various Sensors:
  • Measure air speed, track head movement, and exhaust sound.

Conclusion

• Formula 1 cars are complex and innovative racing machines with intricate systems designed for speed, safety, and aerodynamics.