Ducati, “Anatomy of speed”: aerodynamics, competitions and the desire to innovate [PHOTO]

The exposure “Anatomy of speed” speaks of Ducati and part of its sporting essence. It is a story dedicated to the studies, applications and sporting results linked to aerodynamics, which are also functional in production.

A constantly evolving story

The temporary exhibition, on display until8 October of this year, summarizes what has been applied by Ducati thanks to his scientific knowledge in the world of competitions. In particular, reference is made to aerodynamics and the function of appendages and solutions, evaluating the configurations. Mention is made, for example, of what was done by the house of Borgo Panigale in MotoGP already in 2015, introducing appendages on the fairings. An aspect that has already evolved over the course of the season 2016 laid down by the “general biplane configuration” alternated with that “with only the upper wing”. While in the 2017, given the limitations, some limitations are noted “side pods”, i.e. closed elements in frontal vision. Hence the further limitations in the season 2018 di MotoGP and therefore the study of functional solutions based on the technical regulation, as mentioned.
Aerodynamic performance and appendages are therefore the result of dedicated studies. The translation of evaluations on the behavior of a fluid, specifically air, in contact with a surface of a moving object.
The aerodynamic force is made up of a resistance, which acts in an opposite and parallel direction, therefore a lift, which is active in a perpendicular and positive direction. The motorbike, resulting in a compact body with a certain setting, is subjected to a certain aerodynamic resistance and a resulting vertical load, linked precisely to the external body also considering the rider, with a rear area subjected to a greater weight than the front one. An alar appendage, therefore, involves an increase in vertical load. More figure "upstream", the higher the action at the front, as indicated.
On a production level, one of the most recent translations signed by Ducati and the Panigale V4 R, a sleek and powerful sports car, recognizable in particular by the appendages located laterally near the front area.
The aerodynamic development itself is made up of phases, starting with a "creative design", as highlighted on the occasion. Drafts are given shape, using mathematical models and also scanning the rider on the motorbike, to optimize every detail. Through the computational fluid dynamics (CFD), then, the possible movement of air on the vehicle and pilot occurs, for “represent the pressure and velocity fields”, depending on elements and conditions. If the results of the CFD phase are promising, using a “concept”, further analyzes and updates are carried out using a wind tunnel and a full-scale model of the medium. What is refined in the wind tunnel represents an important step for the design and definition of the components to be tested on a track. A fascinating journey enriched by method and scientific knowledge.

Photos: Ducati