Richard Childress Racing using ANSYS technology at Daytona
NASCAR engineering has become as important as driving.
If you've ever seen a rocket launch, flown on an airplane, driven a car, used a computer, touched a mobile device, crossed a bridge, or put on wearable technology, chances are you've used a product where ANSYS software played a critical role in its creation. ANSYS is the global leader in Pervasive Engineering Simulation.
Richard Childress Racing (RCR) will improve racing times with ANSYS through a new, multi-year partnership. RCR will leverage ANSYS Pervasive Engineering Simulation software to more accurately predict machine performance and enhance vehicle speed on the race track by enabling a true digital twin of a race car.
A fraction of a second on the race track can determine which team takes the trophy, so NASCAR Monster Energy Cup Series teams must constantly improve speeds to stay competitive. A digital twin of the 2018 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 will arm RCR engineers with a more complete understanding of how the physical racecar will operate under race track circumstances that are nearly impossible to test. Sensors and actuators on the physical car are used to build a digital twin that enables data capture, real-time analytics monitoring and predictive maintenance testing – empowering engineers to optimize vehicle performance before race days. RCR used ANSYS multiphysics simulation software to develop and enhance the physical 2018 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, which will debut this season. With ANSYS, RCR reduced drag and optimized structural components of the car and suspension to improve speed. Through the expanded partnership, RCR's engineering and aerodynamics teams will even further advance the car – refining aerodynamics and drastically reducing expensive wind tunnel testing time when compared to traditional testing methods. "Our competitive advantage is absolutely dependent on our ability to use simulation in all areas of our racing efforts," said Dr. Eric Warren, chief technology officer, RCR. "Our partnership with ANSYS will empower us to implement a true digital twin and set a new benchmark of performance development and efficiency." ANSYS is helping the world's most innovative companies deliver radically better products to their customers. By offering the best and broadest portfolio of engineering simulation software, it's about helping solve the most complex design challenges and create products limited only by imagination. Founded in 1970, ANSYS employs thousands of professionals, many of whom are expert M.S. and Ph.D.-level engineers in finite element analysis, computational fluid dynamics, electronics, semiconductors, embedded software and design optimization. Headquartered south of Pittsburgh, Penn.
It's truly a partnership where both parties are feeding off each other.
"RCR is a true pioneer in innovation on and off the track," said Shane Emswiler, vice president and general manager of mechanical, fluids and electronics, ANSYS. "Building a digital twin will deliver accurate, insightful and reliable results that impact performance every week during race season. Using ANSYS Pervasive Engineering Simulation throughout the entire racecar lifecycle, RCR will race faster, safer and more aerodynamic vehicles."
