Putting MF1 to the Test
This week, across the road from the factory at Silverstone
Circuit, Midland F1 has been undertaking an exclusive test
in private. Part of this week's test programme involved the
team undertaking straight line test runs, in addition to "running
in circles" around the Northamptonshire circuit. Ever
wondered why teams do this kind of testing? Technical Director
James Key was kind enough to provide the answers.
Q. Generally why do teams elect to run exclusive
straight line tests as opposed to using the full circuit?
A. Full circuit testing tends to be for quantifying performance
levels and developments, as well as producing a realistic
environment for reliability running. If a particular system
is required to be measured or studied in detail, the number
of variables during normal track running often do make it
possible to make clear conclusions from the data acquired.
Straight line running is a very controlled form of track testing
which allows repeatable measurements to be taken from one
outing, minimising the effects of other variables. A typical
example is full scale aero testing on track, which requires
consistent weather conditions, constant sensor monitoring
and a lot of data processing.
Q. What were Midland F1's aims at the test this week?
A. There were a number of aims for this week's testing. The
first day of testing was normal track running, during which
we were evaluating some new mechanical components, a number
of aero updates for San Marino and tyre testing with Bridgestone.
On the second day, we will undertake dedicated control system
testing.
Q. How much of this test was just the progression
of the teams development programme, and how much of it was
specific to the next race at San Marino?
A. Much of this test is a progression, some of which has
come off the back of the three fly-away races we have just
covered. However, all the parts that are being tested are
intended to run from San Marino onwards.
Q. Are there any differences between the way the
team prepares and sets up for this kind of test session?
A. For the dedicated straight line testing, there are a number
of differences. Typically, these tests are for data acquisition,
so additional sensors and data processing is required. Setup
is maintained at a "nominal" level mechanically,
while any test parts or methods/system to be run would be
cycled through and compared to baseline runs, which are regularly
undertaken through the day.
Q. How is data collected from straight line tests?
A. As mentioned, straight line running is primarily about
data acquisition and less about driver feedback, although
this always remains useful. Depending on the nature of the
test and what we are attempting to prove at the time, data
will be collected in many different ways. It is important
to understand all the factors which could affect the test
results, and therefore additional sensors (in some cases specialised
sensors or equipment which would only run for specific test
requirements) and data processing methods will always be required.
The majority of data acquisition will be car based. However,
in some cases, measurements of ambient conditions, wind direction,
etc. will be monitored closely for each outing to ensure that
any outside factors which will affect the data can be compensated
for. A significant amount of data processing tends to take
place after the event is complete. A straight line or similarly-controlled
test will normally allow the team to learn a great deal about
one particular aspect of the car's behaviour, far more than
can be gained from normal track running. The knowledge gained
is then fed into further car development.
Q. Do the drivers have to change their preparation
and driving style in order to gain the benefits of straight
line tests?
A. Yes. To be honest, straight line testing can be fairly
boring for the drivers, as they are less involved with the
work being carried out and running is very repetitive. Having
said that, much depends on the type of testing being carried
out. For aero testing, there is little that a driver can feedback
or influence. During control systems testing, however, the
driver is more involved. In all cases, the driver will have
to be very consistent, so there is a fair amount of importance
to the "driving style" employed. Similarly, there
may be some driver "training" required during such
tests for new control system developments, or modifying the
way a certain manoeuvre is carried out. In this respect, the
tests can be useful to the driver, in that he may be able
to carry over some of what is covered to normal track running.
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