Influencia de las configuraciones morfológicas en el diseño del alerón trasero en vehículos de competencia en altitud elevada

Abstract

The present research project addresses the effect of morphological configurations on the aerodynamic behavior of spoilers in non-homologated competition vehicles under highaltitude conditions, a challenge for rally motorsports in the province of Tungurahua. The importance of the topic lies in understanding how the shape and geometric layout of the spoiler influence its performance and visual perception. On the other hand, the reduction of atmospheric density in mountainous environments implies a decrease in the spoiler's downforce, risking the automobile's stability and safety. Local practice tends to resort to empirical adaptations that indicate a gap regarding contextualized design. From a methodological standpoint, the development of the study is based on a mixed quasiexperimental approach with a cross-sectional format, supported by qualitative expert criteria, and centered on the case study of the Peugeot 207 category T3. Physical data collection of the component in its natural state was carried out through open observation for its subsequent digitization and surface reconstruction with geometric continuity using 3D modeling software. Proceeding, through computational fluid dynamics simulations, to evaluate the behavior of the spoiler, using a normalization based on the inverted profile NACA 4421. Integrated into the institution's Design, Materials, and Production research line, the innovation concludes with a preliminary design proposal supported by bibliographical evidence. The final morphological configuration is composed of a Gurney flap, endplates, and a surface micro-texturing of alternate dimples that act as a passive control system, thereby improving the aerodynamic behavior of the spoiler.