The research explores the aerodynamic impact of the 2023 FIA regulations regarding the wing mirrors of Formula 1 cars, focusing specifically on Ferrari models. In this study, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations were conducted to evaluate the aerodynamic changes resulting from these new regulations. The analysis focused on three distinct wing mirror models: one from the 2018 Ferrari SF71H (which was later banned), the 2022 Ferrari F75 mirror, and an optimized 2022 model adjusted for the 2023 regulations.

The motivation for this research stems from the constant interplay between aerodynamics and safety in motorsports. Wing mirrors, while essential for driver visibility, can introduce aerodynamic drag, thus affecting the car's overall performance. The new regulations enforced by the FIA aim to prioritize safety by increasing the mirror size and changing its housing, effectively shifting focus away from aerodynamic performance.

The methodology of this study involved using existing CAD models of the Ferrari mirrors, which were optimized and simulated under real-world racing conditions using ANSYS Fluent. The simulation focused on key aerodynamic parameters, including drag, lift forces, velocity magnitude, and turbulent kinetic energy, while also considering the mirror's compliance with the new safety guidelines.

The findings revealed significant changes in the aerodynamic performance of the wing mirrors due to the 2023 FIA regulations. The optimized 2022 Ferrari F75 mirror, adjusted to fit the new specifications, exhibited a 76% increase in aerodynamic drag compared to its predecessor. This increase was largely due to the enlarged mirror surface area and stricter curvature requirements that were designed to enhance driver visibility and safety. Although these changes made the mirrors less aerodynamically efficient, they ensured improved stability and a more even pressure distribution around the mirrors.

The study demonstrated that the 2018 SF71H mirror, which was ultimately banned, had a lower drag force but suffered from high turbulence and instability due to its aerodynamic positioning and single mount design. In comparison, the 2022 F75 model and its optimized version displayed better stability, despite generating more drag. The larger, optimized mirror design showed a more consistent velocity distribution around the mirror, contributing to a reduction in vibration and improved functionality as a visibility tool.

Furthermore, the velocity and pressure contours of the optimized mirror indicated that the larger mirror achieved greater stability by reducing uneven flow characteristics. However, this came at the cost of aerodynamic efficiency. The optimized mirror showed a noticeable drop in speed around its edges, consistent with higher drag forces, but this trade-off was deemed necessary to ensure compliance with the new safety-oriented regulations.

The 2023 FIA regulations have necessitated a shift in focus from optimizing wing mirrors for aerodynamic gains to prioritizing safety and stability for drivers. As evidenced by the findings of this study, the new requirements have effectively enhanced driver visibility at the expense of increased drag and aerodynamic resistance. While the banned 2018 design was more aerodynamically efficient, its compromised stability and poor visibility made it unsuitable under the new regulations.

Overall, this project highlights the constant balance between performance and safety in Formula 1 engineering. By enforcing stricter guidelines for wing mirror dimensions and placement, the FIA aims to enhance the safety aspect of this crucial component, even if it means sacrificing aerodynamic efficiency. The research provides insights into how these regulatory changes impact the design and optimization of Formula 1 car components, reinforcing the importance of adhering to evolving safety standards while striving for performance improvements.