Concept
Explore different mechanical layouts and define the required motion of the rear-wing flap.
DESIGN · MECHANISMS · DEVELOPMENT
DRAG REDUCTION SYSTEM
Developing a scaled Formula One-inspired rear wing and Drag Reduction System from first principles.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Designing a working DRS mechanism from first principles.
This project explores the design and manufacture of a scaled rear wing and Drag Reduction System, developed from an initial mechanical concept into a functional 3D assembly.
The system was initially considered using either pneumatic actuation or an electrical linear actuator, with the aim of creating a mechanism capable of controlling rear-wing movement.
The project focuses on understanding the underlying mechanics of the system, including component interaction, motion, force transmission and structural behaviour.
DEVELOPMENT PROCESS
From sketch to functional mechanism.
Mechanism
Develop linkages and actuation concepts capable of controlling the flap position.
Prototype
Convert the concept into a 3D-printable model to investigate component interaction and motion.
Develop
Refine the CAD model to understand load paths, force transmission and structural requirements.
01
CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT
Initial DRS Concepts
The project began by exploring a range of possible mechanical layouts for actuating a rear-wing flap.
- Investigated linkage arrangements for controlling flap movement.
- Considered both pneumatic and electrical actuation systems.
- Explored different mounting points and mechanical leverage.
- Developed concepts around controlled opening and closing motion.
- Considered packaging within a scaled rear-wing structure.
DESIGN INTENT
Understand the motion first, then build the mechanism around it.
02
PROTOTYPE DEVELOPMENT
From 2D Concept to 3D Model
The initial 2D concept was developed into a fully 3D-printable model to better understand the behaviour of the complete mechanism.
- Converted the original concept into individual CAD components.
- Developed a complete assembly to visualise component interaction.
- Investigated the relative movement of the linkage system.
- Designed components with additive manufacture in mind.
- Improved understanding of the system before further development.
03
SYSTEM ARCHITECTURE
Exploded Assembly
Breaking the mechanism into individual components helped define how each part interfaces with the wider system and highlighted the relationship between the actuator, linkages, flap and mounting structure.
04
ENGINEERING DEVELOPMENT
Load Paths & Force Transmission
A more detailed CAD model was developed to move beyond basic mechanism visualisation and begin assessing the system in a three-dimensional engineering environment.
- Investigated how loads are transferred through the mechanism.
- Considered force transmission through the linkage system.
- Assessed structural requirements during dynamic operation.
- Refined component geometry around expected loading.
- Used CAD to improve the overall understanding of system behaviour.
CURRENT DEVELOPMENT
Next Stage
The 3D system remains under development, with further refinement planned as the mechanical design, actuation strategy and structural requirements are developed.
PROJECT REFLECTION
Developing the mechanism, not just the CAD.
This project has developed my understanding of mechanical systems by requiring the movement of multiple components to be considered together rather than independently.
Progressing from sketches to a 3D-printable mechanism and then to a more detailed CAD assembly has provided a structured approach for understanding motion, packaging and load transfer.