Active Aero and Drag Reduction System for the UNH FSAE Car

UNH’s Formula SAE team designs and builds a race car every year for the FSAE Michigan competition, but has historically lacked aerodynamic components due to resource limitations. Team Aero was formed to address this by designing, manufacturing, and testing an active aerodynamic and drag reduction system for the FSAE car. The final concept features a fixed lower wing and an actuated upper wing that adjusts angle based on driver input via an Arduino-based control system. This system uses a pressure sensor, actuator potentiometer, and override functionality for real-time responsiveness. CFD simulations and wind tunnel testing at 35 mph guided airfoil selection and geometric optimization. The GOE233 airfoil was chosen for its high inverse lift-to-drag ratio. The stationary wing was fixed at 10°, with a 250 mm chord, while the actuated wing used a 125 mm chord with a 3° resting angle. The wings were 3D printed in PLA, wrapped in carbon fiber, and mounted with gooseneck supports. The actuated wing rotates from 3° to 50° in 0.29 seconds. Future teams are encouraged to refine design, enhance materials, and expand wind tunnel and CFD simulation testing. This project sets a precedent for incorporating advanced aero into UNH’s FSAE program.