Vehicle dynamics simulates the car’s performance with a great deal of accuracy and support during the entire design process, increasing its safety level. Dallara studies the performance and behavior of vehicles with the help of mathematical models. The extensive experience gathered by Dallara on the racetracks around the world has meant that the company has created a vast archive of mathematical models relative to suspension loads, kinematics and other parameters related to vehicle performance. The Dallara specialists are able to model an entire car in terms of suspension geometry and weight distribution, together with the aerodynamic coefficients and tyre parameters.
PROFESSIONAL DRIVING SIMULATOR
The professional driving simulator is a fundamental tool in the study of vehicle dynamics. The simulator, through mathematical models, offers engineers, teams and drivers the chance to test a car before it is produced. The advanced complete circuit simulation system, obtained through high-level laser scans, allows to replicate the behavior of the real car with extreme precision. The simulator is used for three main activities:
1) Training: the simulator allows a driver to test a car that has the same monocoque that would be used during the race, with the same driving controls (pedals, brakes, and dashboard) and allows him to have realist reactions to his commands (steering wheel and brakes). The helmet is mandatory, as are the gloves, shoes and racing suit. The driver has the opportunity to get to know the curves (irregularities, bumps and kerbs ) that he will have to face during the race and the speed he should use to approach them.
2) Car Setup: the user interface developed in Dallara guarantees ease of use, data security and speed of execution. During the simulation, the engineers can adjust, directly with the computer, any parameter of the set-up of the car or of the environment based on the information supplied by the driver in order to satisfy his needs and to test the changes in a controlled environment. The mathematical model allows the set-up of the car both for qualification and for the race, considering tire wear, track features and weather conditions.
3) Designing of a new car: The software, developed by Dallara engineers, allows the creation of new mathematical models that can be validated by a professional driver, allowing him to access the design process of a new car. This method reduces the manufacturing times of a car, be it a racing car or a high-performance road car.