How do you learn from other designers' aerodynamic successes and failures?

1 Observe and analyze

One of the best ways to learn from other designers is to observe and analyze their work. You can use online resources, books, magazines, or exhibitions to find examples of different aerodynamic solutions and styles. Pay attention to the shape, proportions, details, and features of the vehicles, and try to understand the logic and purpose behind them. How do they achieve low drag, high downforce, or optimal cooling? What are the trade-offs and challenges involved? What are the influences and inspirations behind the design?

2 Experiment and test

Another way to learn from other designers is to experiment and test your own ideas. You can use sketching, modeling, or software tools to create and modify your designs, and see how they affect the aerodynamic performance. You can also use wind tunnels, simulations, or real-world testing to measure and evaluate the results. By doing this, you can learn from your own successes and failures, and discover new possibilities and solutions.

3 Compare and contrast

A third way to learn from other designers is to compare and contrast their work with yours or with others. You can use criteria such as drag coefficient, lift-to-drag ratio, or pressure distribution to quantify and compare the aerodynamic performance of different vehicles. You can also use aesthetic, functional, or contextual aspects to compare and contrast the design choices and outcomes. By doing this, you can learn from the similarities and differences, and identify the strengths and weaknesses of each approach.

4 Collaborate and communicate

A fourth way to learn from other designers is to collaborate and communicate with them. You can join online forums, communities, or groups where you can share your work, ask for feedback, or exchange ideas and opinions. You can also participate in workshops, competitions, or projects where you can work with other designers, learn from their experiences, or challenge yourself with new tasks and goals. By doing this, you can learn from the diversity and creativity of others, and expand your network and opportunities.

5 Learn and apply

A fifth way to learn from other designers is to learn and apply the principles and concepts of aerodynamics to your own work. You can use online courses, books, articles, or podcasts to learn the basics and advanced topics of aerodynamics, such as fluid dynamics, boundary layers, flow separation, or vortex generation. You can also use case studies, examples, or best practices to learn how other designers apply these principles and concepts to their work, such as reducing frontal area, smoothing edges, or adding spoilers. By doing this, you can learn the theory and practice of aerodynamics, and improve your skills and knowledge.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?