How can you optimize airflow around a car body?

2 How to model a car body in CFD?

To model a car body in CFD, you need to create a geometry that represents the shape and dimensions of the car. You can use CAD software or scan an existing car to generate the geometry. Then, you need to create a mesh that divides the geometry into small cells. The mesh should be fine enough to capture the details of the car body and the flow around it.

3 How to set up the boundary conditions in CFD?

The boundary conditions in CFD define the properties and behavior of the fluid at the boundaries of the domain. For example, you can specify the velocity and direction of the incoming air, the temperature and pressure of the ambient air, and the wall friction and heat transfer of the car surface. The boundary conditions should match the real-world conditions that you want to simulate.

4 How to run the simulation in CFD?

To run the simulation in CFD, you need to choose a solver that can handle the type of flow that you are interested in. For example, you can use a laminar or turbulent solver, a steady-state or transient solver, or a compressible or incompressible solver. The solver will use the geometry, mesh, and boundary conditions to calculate the flow variables at each cell. The simulation may take from minutes to hours depending on the complexity of the problem.

6 How to optimize the car body in CFD?

To optimize the car body in CFD, you need to use optimization techniques that can find the best combination of design parameters that meet your objectives. For example, you can use gradient-based or evolutionary algorithms, sensitivity analysis or design of experiments, or surrogate models or machine learning. You can define your objectives as minimizing drag, maximizing downforce, or balancing both. You can also consider constraints such as weight, cost, or manufacturability.