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Old 07-08-2012, 09:10 PM   #1 (permalink)
Shortie771
Eco Sol
 
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Join Date: May 2009
Location: Paradise, TX
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Testing Aerodynamics Through Software

I have found a way to test my Del Sol's aerodynamics and (if i can figure out 3D graphic design a bit) modify my car through software to test aerodynamics before actually modifying my car. I used Google SkechUp 8 to and through its "3D Wharehouse" I downloaded a 3D model of my car. Then you can download a 30 day free trial of a plugin called CADspan, which will allow you to export the file as a .STL file. After you have completed exporting the file you can open it in a wind tunnel simulation program called Project Falcon and look at your aerodynamics in many views.

If you have any experience with Google Sketchup or 3D graphic design, or maybe just want to give it a shot... You can modify your vehicle and test different designs with Project Falcon to come up with the best results for your vehicle. I know it seems like a lot of work (it isnt really) but I just thought it was really cool to see how the flow of air for my car and plan to test some different things (once i figure out Google Sketchup).

Here are some pics of my car in Project Falcon



In 3D




If anybody has graphics experience i would love a .stl with a kammback, grill block, and rear skirts on that thing

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Best Tank = 42.72 mpg (in the 94 Del Sol)

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Last edited by Shortie771; 07-09-2012 at 09:31 AM..
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