As I begin my 3rd year at UCL as a mechanical engineering student, the topic I’ve chosen for my individual project (MECH0020 module) is: “Design and Develop Ground-Effect Aerodynamics for the 2023 UCL Formula Student racing car”. This blog post announces the topic, but the majority of information will remain confidential to protect the IP of our Formula Student Team. In particular, I will be responsible for the design, development, manufacturing and performance prove-out of underfloor aerodynamics, which is a combination of the floor, rear diffuser and the side pods.
Ground effect relies on the Bernoulli’s principle: the airflow between the road surface and the bottom of the car is accelerated as it passes through a narrow restriction. As a consequence of the increased air velocity, the air is decreases in pressure, therefore creating suction.
