CFD and Reverse Engineering Bluebird

4: CFD and Reverse Engineering Bluebird
Wednesday 31st August 2011

The scanning (and scan alignment) processes created a model of the car with almost quarter of a billion measurements. This could then be output in many formats – such as cross-sections, solid models (via STL point cloud), or even as video – either rendered in pseudo-colour, or as a wireframe model. While the video provides a fascinating insight into the car, the real benefit comes in the use of the model for CFD analysis, which should lead into future speed optimisations as the 500mph car develops. However, Phase Vision transferred the CFD data to TechSoft – a rapid manufacturing company specialising in the educational market.

TechSoft then used the Bluebird data from the Phase Vision scanner to create a rapid-manufactured model of the car. A state of the art FDM machine from HP was used to produce a small model of the car, approximately 200mm long, and was presented to Don Wales (the main driver) at the end of the event. Larger models could be constructed

Martin Rees, program director at Bluebird commented “with the detailed CFD model, we can now get a better understanding of how and why the car performs at speed – but we also have a permanent record of the car as it stood on the eve of this record-breaking attempt. This data could allow us to licence the Bluebird to model makers – or to souvenir companies – either of which could form a useful means to raise funds for the team and the 500mph challenge”.

An interesting opportunity exists to create such models for some of the older Bluebird cars and boats. If you are a model or souvenir manufacturer, Martin would be glad to hear your input. Contact Martin Rees martin@bluebirdspeedrecords.com

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