n recent days, we analyzed an unprecedented Ferrari solution that could likely become a benchmark. Examining the illustration, we note the presence of four vertical fences located at the floor inlet.
What we can define as the fifth element is obtained by appropriately twisting the outer edge of the floor attachment. Furthermore, a transverse profile intersecting all the vertical strakes can be observed; this appendage is designed to generate a pronounced downwash effect, forcibly pushing the fluid mass towards the tarmac.
Let us now discuss the reigning world champion team, McLaren, which, through the shot taken directly in the pitlane, allows us to glimpse five profiles featuring different shaping.
The pool of engineers led by former Red Bull man Rob Marshall has chosen to design each individual element to best manage the fluid mass directed underneath the floor, incidentally copying a Ferrari solution with a horizontal fence dividing the channels.
Now we move on to the team currently leading both championship standings. Through the image, a distinctly different configuration of this area can be seen on the excellent W17.
Of the five appendages, the three innermost ones feature a more twisted shape. Moreover, their size is larger compared to the elements described for Ferrari and McLaren, whereas the two outermost profiles are instead anchored to each other via a transverse fence.
For Red Bull, the situation changes profoundly, considering that the engineers have interpreted this area by pushing through the grey areas of the regulations. There is, in fact, an additional channel, which we can appreciate in the drawing.
Meanwhile, thanks to the following shot, considering exclusively the appendages at the floor inlet, it emerges how the conceptual approach and geometries appear more akin to the solution utilized by McLaren.
The four vertical fences are indeed quite elongated, with a decidedly lower degree of twist compared to the solution adopted by the Maranello team.
