Formula One adjustable wings

[sveglu]

Hi,
I am wondering how the F1 race cars adjust their wings? Do they use hydraulics or servo activators? Or is it just a mechanical solution what I cannot imagine since the forces on these wings would be to strong for a solely mechanical solution.
Thanks
KR
Hannes

 

[rb1957]

i think they have mechanical adjustors (screw-threads) that are adjusted in the pits.

 

[sveglu]

well, with 2009 the teams are allowed to use driver adjustable wings, see

http://www.formula1.com/inside_f1/rules_and_regulations/sporting_regulations/8692/

for details

KR
Hannes

 

[MiketheEngineer]

So why can't they change their suspension - loose or tight??

 

[ENS2K]

I saw an article which suggested several teams were using neodymium stepper motors, but it did not cite a source. It sounds reasonable since there has to be an electronic logic system which allows the ECU to limit the driver to two adjustments per lap.

As for adjustable suspension components, the only adjustment which is allowed is the steering of two wheels.

 

[crysta1c1ear]

I'd go for the stepper motors sugested above, but I'm guessing.

One of the cars recently had it's nose cone replaced after an accident and the TV commentator mentioned that they have to align the connectors. That sounds electrical to me.

 

[GregLocock]

Ferrari and Honda use hydraulics, I think.



Cheers

Greg Locock

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[sveglu]

Thanks for your inputs!
@ENS2K: could you please post a link to the article? Thanks

KR
Hannes

 

[crysta1c1ear]

Ferrari and Honda use hydraulics, I think.

I believe Barichello's Brawn GP (ex Honda) damaged his nose cone in the Australian GP and had it replaced. I don't recall any mention of leaks or spills on the track or in the pits.

I know that leak-proof clip on fittings are possible, for example that was the whole business of Oystertec PLC, but it still doesn't sound right to me that hydraulic fluids would be circulating inside the nose cone.

But we need someone who knows. I'm just guessing.

 

[KENAT]

crystal, could be electro hydraulic, that way there aren't long lines leading all over the place.

KENAT,

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What is Engineering anyway: faq1088-1484

 

[swearingen]

The chief engineer on the Brawn GP team demonstrated the use of the adjustable blade during the "Inside F1" show this past weekend. The action suggested that it was a stepper motor and it appeared to have only two positions - up or down. He indicated that there was a switch on the upper right of the back side of the steering wheel to activate it, but said he didn't want to show the back side of the wheel on TV.


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