Calculating max speed at a turn with downforce

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In summary, the conversation revolves around finding the maximum speed of a slotcar at an unbanked turn with a permanent magnet generating a downforce of 200 grams and an electromagnet that can brake with a force interval of 0-560 grams. The slotcar's top speed is 5m/s with a weight of 200 grams and a coefficient of friction of 0.65 on an unbanked raceroad with a turn radius of 0.33m. The conversation also mentions that there are 3 types of turns (45, 90, and 180 degrees) and that without any tangential forces, the maximum speed is 1.45134m/s. There is some confusion about the direction of
  • #1
anru
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Hi guys..

I want to find out how to find the maximum speed of a slotcar at a unbanked turn with a permanent magnet which have a downforce of 200 grams and a electromagnet which can brake in the interval 0-560grams.

My slotcars topspeed is 5m/s and the wheight is 200grams.
The coefficient of friction of the slotcar on a unbanked raceroad is 0,65.
The radius of the turn is 0,33m.

There are 3 types of turns 45,90 and 180 degree turns.

I have calculated that if the slotcar didn't have the electromagnet or the permanent one, it had a maximum speed of 1,45134m/s

Can someone help me?
 
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  • #2
Permanent magnet is likely to generate tangential force in addition to downforce. And I'm not sure what you mean by saying that electromagnet can brake. Which direction does it apply force in?

Without any tangential forces involved, (mv²/R)/(mg+Fd)=μ. If you are doing forces in grams, then take g=1. μ is your friction coefficient, R is the turn radius, m is the car's weight, and Fd is the sum of all downforces. The length of the turn doesn't make a difference. Rear wheels can begin to slide at much slower speeds, depending on where the magnet is located and how the weight is distributed.
 
  • #3
Hi. Thanks for the reply. The magnetic downforce is a downgoing force (hoslotracer.com/content/magnetic-down-force-measurements)
 

1. How does downforce affect the maximum speed at a turn?

Downforce is a downward force that is generated by wings, spoilers, and other aerodynamic features on a vehicle. This force helps to increase the grip and stability of the vehicle, allowing it to maintain higher speeds through turns.

2. What factors determine the maximum speed at a turn with downforce?

The maximum speed at a turn with downforce is determined by several factors, including the amount of downforce generated by the vehicle, the weight and balance of the vehicle, the speed of the vehicle, and the angle of the turn.

3. How is the maximum speed at a turn with downforce calculated?

The maximum speed at a turn with downforce is calculated using a combination of mathematical equations and real-world testing. Factors such as the vehicle's aerodynamics, weight distribution, and speed are taken into account to determine the optimal speed at which the vehicle can safely navigate a turn with the help of downforce.

4. Can downforce be adjusted to improve the maximum speed at a turn?

Yes, downforce can be adjusted to improve the maximum speed at a turn. By adjusting the angle and positioning of wings, spoilers, and other aerodynamic features, the amount of downforce generated can be increased or decreased to optimize the vehicle's performance through turns.

5. How does downforce affect the overall performance of a vehicle?

Downforce plays a crucial role in the overall performance of a vehicle, especially in racing and high-speed driving. It helps to improve traction, stability, and handling, allowing drivers to maintain higher speeds and navigate turns more efficiently. However, too much downforce can also increase drag and slow down the vehicle, so finding the right balance is essential for optimal performance.

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