Visualization of Aerodynamic Simulation of a Formula SAE Racing Car
by Yuko Kotani and Yoshihito Kikkawa, KGT Inc.
This EnSight animation visualizes the results of an aerodynamic simulation of the race car SR06 manufactured by Sophia Racing. The team used FLUENT for CFD analysis and EnSight for visualization.

Sophia Racing, from Sophia University in Japan, has actively participated in the worldwide racing competition, Formula SAE, for several years now. Formula SAE is a challenging academic motor event held worldwide every year. Their aim is to help the next-generation of engineers achieve practical knowledge in the areas of design, manufacturing, team management, marketing and sales.

The car, regulated by Formula SAE, was classified as a low-speed vehicle because it had difficulty getting enough aerodynamic effect. The Sophia Team, however, has been developing the analysis of fluid flowing around the bottom of the car so as to create effective downforce. They used this aerodynamic EnSight animation of as one of their appealing points in the design competition in Formula SAE.

So far the team has won three international contests and several Japanese competitions. With their race car, the SR06, they won the first-ever second straight victory at the Japanese competition in 2007, as well as first prize at the international competition held in Japan in 2006.
 

Animation courtesy of Sophia Racing of Sophia University, the No. 1 of Formula SAE Team in Japan.

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