Formula 1 2022/2023 Aerodynamics and Rule Development
Abstract
This talk will cover the development of the mainly aerodynamic rule changes for Formula 1 for the 2022 season (and then for 2023). The speaker will discuss why the rules changes were made and how the rules were developed in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and in the wind tunnel. He will show how cars have developed in the two years since the concept of the rules was introduced and discuss what that has meant for racing. Initially expressed concerns by the teams that the cars would all perform the same can now be dismissed.
The speaker will briefly touch on the challenges ahead for Formula 1 with the main focus on the aerodynamic parts of the regulations and mention some of the ideas being discussed for the longer-term future of the sport. He will also include a brief discussion about how a team may find the correct location and orientation of a new component in the airflow aimed at achieving a specific objective, using an example from a different category of formula car.
About the speaker
Prof. Willem Toet received his BSc degree from La Trobe University in 1974. In 1985, he started his Formula 1 career, mainly with the title of Head of Aerodynamics, from the mid-1980s to 2015, working for Benetton, Ferrari, BAR/Honda and BMW/Sauber. He joined the University of Bolton in 2017 and is currently a Professor at the National Centre for Motorsport Engineering there. He also consults for the Sauber group, mainly for aerodynamic research or wind tunnel testing, and does occasional direct consulting work on aerodynamics.
Prof. Toet delivers part of the aerodynamics course for the Motorsport Industry Association’s School of Race Engineering. He is passionate about inspiring the next generation of engineers and improving the diversity of the workforce in motorsport. He also delights in finding simple ways to explain complex systems. He was awarded Honorary Fellow by the University of Southampton in 2014 and Honorary Doctor of Engineering by the University of Bolton in 2018.
For Attendees' Attention
Seating is on a first come, first served basis.
