SUMMARY
Car manufacturers do not dimple sheet metal to reduce drag primarily due to manufacturability challenges and aesthetic considerations. While dimples on a golf ball effectively reduce air resistance, applying this concept to vehicles presents difficulties in production and design. Lexus has begun implementing dimples on the underside of certain models to address specific aerodynamic needs, particularly in areas prone to negative pressure gradients that cause boundary layer separation.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of aerodynamics and drag coefficients
- Familiarity with automotive design principles
- Knowledge of boundary layer theory
- Basic concepts of manufacturability in automotive engineering
NEXT STEPS
- Research Lexus's approach to dimpling in automotive design
- Explore the principles of boundary layer separation and its impact on vehicle aerodynamics
- Investigate alternative methods for reducing drag in automotive engineering
- Learn about the trade-offs between aesthetics and performance in vehicle design
USEFUL FOR
Automotive engineers, aerodynamicists, and design professionals interested in optimizing vehicle performance and understanding the balance between functionality and aesthetics.