Table of Contents
What are the prerequisites for aerodynamics?
Prerequisites
- Fluid mechanics.
- Thermodynamics.
- Algorithms and programming.
In what class do you learn aerodynamics?
Aerospace engineering degrees are fundamentally engineering degrees, of which aerodynamics is only one, often minor, component. These degrees require extensive science and math coursework, including classes in chemistry, physics, analytic geometry, differential equations and calculus.
How can I improve my car aerodynamics?
You’ll also improve aerodynamics by:
- Reducing the use of roof racks.
- Rolling up your windows and turning on the air conditioner at higher speeds, typically above 35 mph.
- Replacing a broken or missing front air dam.
- Lowering your vehicle.
- Running narrower tires.
What is the best aerodynamic shape?
For speeds lower than the speed of sound, the most aerodynamically efficient shape is the teardrop. The teardrop has a rounded nose that tapers as it moves backward, forming a narrow, yet rounded tail, which gradually brings the air around the object back together instead of creating eddy currents.
What are the basic principles of vehicle aerodynamics?
Aerodynamic Principles. Drag. No matter how slowly a car is going, it takes some energy to move the car through the air. This energy is used to overcome a force called Drag. Drag, in vehicle aerodynamics, is comprised primarily of three forces: Frontal pressure, or the effect created by a vehicle body pushing air out of the way.
How do you measure the aerodynamic efficiency of a car?
The aerodynamic efficiency of a car’s shape is measured by its co-efficient of drag (generally known as its Cd figure). For example, a flat plate held at right angles to the airflow has a Cd of 1.25, whereas the most efficient production car shapes at the moment have a Cd of about 0.28.
Why can’t the CD figure be used to calculate aerodynamic drag?
However, this Cd figure cannot be used by itself to calculate a car’s aerodynamic drag because it does not take into account the car’s frontal area. The frontal area is the car’s total cross-section, or the total amount of space it occupies when viewed from the front.
How does aerodynamics affect the fuel consumption of a car?
The more aerodynamically efficient it is, the less fuel it will use to travel along at any given speed. The faster the car moves, the more important it is to keep the air resistance – drag – to a minimum.