Problem Description $(10$ Points$)$

The rear wing of Formula One car plays a crucial role in generating downforce, which helps increase the car's grip on the track, especially at high speeds. The rear wing's design, including its shape, angle, and elements like the Drag Reduction System $($DRS$),$ is critical for balancing aerodynamic drag with downforce, allowing the car to be both fast on straights and stable through corners.

Objective: Develop a comprehensive plan for designing and optimizing a rear wing that provides the optimal balance between downforce and aerodynamic drag for improved performance in different racing conditions.

Tasks:

$1.$ Initial Design Research and Conceptual Planning

$(3$ Points$)$

Research and Analysis: Conduct an in$-$depth analysis of existing rear wing designs in Formula One to understand common elements and innovations, such as multi$-$element airfoils and adjustable wing flaps. Identify aerodynamic goals, including targeted downforce and drag reduction ratios.

Conceptual Design Planning: Outline a conceptual design plan that includes key design elements like the main plane, endplates, and DRS flap $($optional$).$ Use parametric design principles to plan for potential adjustments to critical dimensions, angles, and airfoil shapes.

$2.$ Design Variants Planning

$(2$ Points$)$

Configuration Planning: Develop a plan for several initial design variations to explore different configurations $($e$.$g$.,$ wing angle, number of elements, endplate shapes$)$ and assess their potential impact on performance.

$3.$ Performance Evaluation Strategy

$(2$ Points$)$

Evaluation Criteria: Establish criteria for evaluating aerodynamic performance, focusing on key metrics such as downforce $($negative lift$)$ and drag coefficients. Plan for assessing airflow characteristics around the rear wing, including pressure distributions, flow separations, and vortex formations.

DRS Impact Assessment $($optional$)$: Plan for evaluating the impact of the DRS flap in open and closed positions on drag reduction and overall aerodynamic efficiency.

$4.$ Performance Comparison and Data Analysis Planning

$(3$ Points$)$

Comparison Framework: Develop a framework for comparing design variants based on anticipated performance outcomes, focusing on downforce, drag, and drag$-$to$-$downforce ratios. Plan to identify which designs are expected to achieve the best aerodynamic balance.