In the electrifying world of Formula 1, where innovation and technology dance in harmony with speed and precision, there’s always a cat-and-mouse game between the governing body, the FIA, and the teams. The latest episode of this high-stakes rivalry unfolds at the Singapore Grand Prix, where the FIA has tightened its grip on the design of front and rear wings to put an end to teams’ antics with flexible parts.
Unveiling the Secrets
As reported by F1 Flow.com, the FIA has taken the bold step of demanding access to all design drawings of wings before the Marina Bay race to ensure compliance with the rules. This crackdown specifically targets wing designs that incorporate elements capable of moving or rotating in relation to the bodywork they’re attached to. It also outlaws the use of elastomeric (rubber) fillets, which can aid localized deflection, and designs employing soft trailing edges to enhance flexing.
The FIA’s single-seater director, Nikolas Tombazis, has shed light on the rationale behind this stern approach. In an exclusive interview with F1 Flow.com, Tombazis explained the challenges faced by the FIA in controlling flexi-wings: “In the F1 regulations, we have many flexibility criteria. There are static tests that we perform to check compliance, but these tests are never perfect because they don’t exactly replicate the real aerodynamic forces on the track.”
The War on Mechanisms
Tombazis continued, “Teams have attempted to exploit this by designing wings that appear fixed during FIA tests but become more flexible under different loads. To address this, we’ve repeatedly emphasized that mechanisms are not permissible under the regulations.”
One intriguing aspect that raised eyebrows was the discovery of concealed mechanisms hidden beneath rubber coverings. Tombazis emphasized that any component with relative motion against an adjacent element, especially when hidden under a layer of rubber, was deemed unacceptable.
Uncovering the Secrets
This enforcement extends beyond just front-wing elements; it includes attachments with the nose as well. The FIA has also scrutinized the flexibility of lower rear wing components attached to the crash structure. To better police the upper wing elements, reference dots were introduced from the 2021 Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
Tombazis elaborated on the investigative process: “We’ve observed rotations and conducted examinations by opening up components or examining CAD drawings provided by the teams. Collaboration with the teams has become essential. We’ve encountered drawings that pushed the boundaries of acceptability, prompting us to issue more stringent clarifications.”
In the world of Formula 1, where every millimeter and millisecond count, the battle over flexi-wings is a testament to the unrelenting pursuit of an advantage. As technology evolves, so do the challenges for the FIA in ensuring a level playing field. The crackdown on flexi-wings is yet another chapter in the ever-evolving saga of F1 innovation and regulation. The Singapore Grand Prix might just reveal which teams have adapted to the new rules and which ones are still trying to stay one step ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about F1 Flexi-Wing Controversy
What are flexi-wings in Formula 1?
Flexi-wings in Formula 1 refer to front and rear wing components that can bend or flex under aerodynamic loads. Teams have exploited these flexible wings to gain a competitive advantage.
Why is the FIA cracking down on flexi-wings?
The FIA is clamping down on flexi-wings to ensure fair competition. Some teams were using hidden mechanisms and rubber coverings to make their wings appear compliant during tests but more flexible during races, which goes against regulations.
What specific wing designs are outlawed?
The FIA has banned wing elements that move or rotate in relation to the bodywork they’re attached to. Elastomeric (rubber) fillets aiding deflection and designs with soft trailing edges for enhanced flexing are also prohibited.
How is the FIA enforcing these rules?
The FIA is conducting thorough inspections of wing designs, demanding access to design drawings, and collaborating with teams to ensure compliance. They are particularly focused on hidden mechanisms and relative motion between components.
What impact does this crackdown have on Formula 1?
This crackdown aims to create a level playing field by preventing teams from gaining an unfair aerodynamic advantage. It emphasizes the FIA’s commitment to upholding the integrity of Formula 1 and ensuring fair competition among teams.
