WIND TUNNEL TEAM LEADER
Working on a continuous cycle, the wind tunnel is an essential tool in the programme to improve aerodynamic performance. A senior aerodynamacist describes his role.
The job
"The department has a scale model of the race car in the wind tunnel which we use to test aerodynamic parts from front and rear wing assemblies to the diffuser and small widgets. There is a continuous test programme, so I co-ordinate which parts will get tested and when. This involves working alongside senior aerodynamicists in design and manufacturing - to get guidance about the specific performance of the component and when we can expect to have it ready for testing.
My group is responsible for the quality and accuracy of the test results. Although there are a few long-term projects aimed at certain test dates throughout the season, a lot of the work is short term. These are often the result of an interesting development form the wind tunnel or test track. I aim to schedule the programme to test components in the most efficient way. Even so, on occasion we divert from the test programme and look at different design trends or directions just to see whether there is anything worth pursuing."
First steps
"I was always interested in learning how things work, and went on to study aeronautical engineering at university. There, I preferred to get involved with experimental subjects - which is effectively where I've ended up, looking after the experimental side in the aero group."
How did you get started at McLaren Racing?
"After finishing my degree I started on a PhD focusing on ground effect and diffusers. However, towards the end I heard that McLaren was looking to recruit aerodynamicists. I joined the company in 2002 and spent the first year working at the team's second wind tunnel just outside London. When we stopped operations there, I returned to the McLaren Technology Centre."
How has your role developed?
"When I first started at McLaren there were only four aerodynamicists involved in running the windtunnel, but with increased wind tunnel operating hours that steadily grew. That led to more responsibility and I took on the team leader role at the end of 2006."
What other qualities are useful in your role?
"In my group you need experimental experience. Attention to detail is important. The wind tunnel runs 24/7 so you need to keep up with the pace of development. It might seem daunting but the speed is one of the things I find most enjoyable."
What's the most satisfying bit about your job?
"Seeing the results of your work get to the track is a thrill. But it's not just about getting results and interpreting them. We're encouraged to explore different avenues, just to see if it produces new ideas. For me, that's very interesting."
Working on a continuous cycle, the wind tunnel is an essential tool in the programme to improve aerodynamic performance. A senior aerodynamacist describes his role.
The job
"The department has a scale model of the race car in the wind tunnel which we use to test aerodynamic parts from front and rear wing assemblies to the diffuser and small widgets. There is a continuous test programme, so I co-ordinate which parts will get tested and when. This involves working alongside senior aerodynamicists in design and manufacturing - to get guidance about the specific performance of the component and when we can expect to have it ready for testing.
My group is responsible for the quality and accuracy of the test results. Although there are a few long-term projects aimed at certain test dates throughout the season, a lot of the work is short term. These are often the result of an interesting development form the wind tunnel or test track. I aim to schedule the programme to test components in the most efficient way. Even so, on occasion we divert from the test programme and look at different design trends or directions just to see whether there is anything worth pursuing."
First steps
"I was always interested in learning how things work, and went on to study aeronautical engineering at university. There, I preferred to get involved with experimental subjects - which is effectively where I've ended up, looking after the experimental side in the aero group."
How did you get started at McLaren Racing?
"After finishing my degree I started on a PhD focusing on ground effect and diffusers. However, towards the end I heard that McLaren was looking to recruit aerodynamicists. I joined the company in 2002 and spent the first year working at the team's second wind tunnel just outside London. When we stopped operations there, I returned to the McLaren Technology Centre."
How has your role developed?
"When I first started at McLaren there were only four aerodynamicists involved in running the windtunnel, but with increased wind tunnel operating hours that steadily grew. That led to more responsibility and I took on the team leader role at the end of 2006."
What other qualities are useful in your role?
"In my group you need experimental experience. Attention to detail is important. The wind tunnel runs 24/7 so you need to keep up with the pace of development. It might seem daunting but the speed is one of the things I find most enjoyable."
What's the most satisfying bit about your job?
"Seeing the results of your work get to the track is a thrill. But it's not just about getting results and interpreting them. We're encouraged to explore different avenues, just to see if it produces new ideas. For me, that's very interesting."
