On 11 Jan 2004 18:20:04 GMT, (Smartace11) wrote:

Lots of autos have spoilers, as they push down on the rear for more rear
wheel loading. some formula one style racers have computer controlled
spoilers they call "spoiler flaps", so as to differentiate from a fixed
spoiler.

Formula One type open wheel cars cars don't have active aerodynamic surfaces
anywhere, flaps, spoilers, whatever. They are fixed. The fixed surfaces are
called wings and barge boards. They can be adjusted by the pit crew with tools
for track conditons. The only thing computer controlled by the computer aside
from the engine under present FIA rules is the traction system.

NASCAR uses spoilers that pop up when a car or truck is going
backward; these are designed to generate drag, spoil lift, and slow
the vehicle down while encouraging it to stay on the ground.

You can see them when they open; they're just in front of the back
window. They're pretty conspicuous.

Mary

--
Mary Shafer Retired aerospace research engineer