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Old Sep 19, 2005 | 02:06 PM
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RickB
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 122
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Default Re: spoiler - form follows function?

Been thinking about why the deployment speed is so low relative to the speed where its "required" to keep the car stable. Most aerodynamic forces are a function of the velocity cubed, so a 40 lb force at 60 mph would be near 320 lb at 120 mph. Looking at the size of the motor that raises the spoiler, I don't think it could move the unit with a 300+ downforce acting on it. The speed appears to be set to allow the spoiler motor to raise and lock the unit while the forces are still low enough to allow it to operate. Once in the upper locked position, the motor is no longer required.
 
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