Title: Variation of ground effect phenomena about downforce generating Tyrrell and NACA4412 aerofoils

Authors: Jonathan W. Vogt, Tracie J. Barber

Addresses: School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia. ' School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia

Abstract: A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) investigation was undertaken to investigate the differences in ground effect phenomena about the inverted Tyrrell and inverted NACA4412 aerofoils, and how these phenomena change with ground clearance. In understanding what these differences are, it is hoped to better understand the mechanisms of ground effect. Phenomena were observed through observation of the normal and drag forces, pressure coefficient plots and an analysis of the dividing streamline and stagnation point. Results indicate that the Tyrrell aerofoil makes better use of ground effect by promoting a greater under-aerofoil flow rate and a more productive diffuser-effect.

Keywords: ground effect; downforce generation; inverted airfoils; Tyrrell; NACA4412; computational fluid dynamics; CFD; automotive aerodynamics; ground clearance effect; drag; diffuser effect; under-aerofoil flow.

DOI: 10.1504/IJAD.2010.031704

International Journal of Aerodynamics, 2010 Vol.1 No.1, pp.82 - 96

Published online: 21 Feb 2010 *

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