Diecast Wind Tunnel
I just wanted to share something fun today.. This just popped up in my feed and thought what a funny idea... I guess it was worth looking at because someone sent it to me... Big $$$ for this wind tunnel... But momma says Hell No.. :-)
https://www.fun-tech-lab.com/products/windsible-desktop-wind-tunnel-for-your-diecast-cars-models
Discussion
Those Windsible tunnels are expensive, but worth it if you need to up your aero efficiency on linger tracks.
- I put more faith in weight distro and wheels & axle treatment than in aero bonus, bold of me to say from the grandstands — Chris_Hood
For that amount, you can probably get the parts and build one yourself. Halloween fog machine, computer fan, a cheap clear shoebox .... Voxxer has a wind tunnel machine that's just a fan with thread tied on it to see the air flow over a car.
More folks are discovering this item. Really giving that classic "Sharper Image Catalog" vibe, doesn't it? While I'm not sold on the practicality for racing yet, it screams "Nifty" if not "thrifty"
I ordered mine in January. It just cleared customs in NYC and should hopefully arrive this week.
The big question is...Tool or Toy? After watching a dozen or so YouTube reviews, it seems to be a useful visual aid, if nothing else. Fluid dynamics are fascinating to me and I often find myself speculating on a specific design's aero charachteristics. I think this device will help answer a lot of questions.
- I watched the video several times as it was cool to watch... Im not sure what it would or could do in the racing side of things... Keep us posted once you start using yours... — Desert_Rat_Racing
- I got mine. It's more to than tool but I bought it because I wanted a fun way for my kids to play and learn about physics concepts like aerodynamics. It's a fun teaching tool at least. — sloppybear
So here is another crazy one for you to check out on FaceBook.... Guess you can break in your wax/polish/ lube process.... lol
- Lol, that's cool. Would be cool for intro vids, have a scrolling background and that set up so it's level with the "road" — JBlotner42
Good news, tracking says my Windsible has arrived @ my local post office, so I should have it tomorrow.
Even though I've yet to use this device, there are a few things that I've gathered that it doesn't do that I wish that it did.
First, it clearly displays the aero activity from the side and top but not the underside. The ability to visually gauge the underside velocity and flow (or lack threreof in "ground effects" situations) can be just as crucial as top side flow. This could be easily achieved with a transparent floor deck and a slot for a smart phone camera.
Second, it's purely a display device. Wouldn't it be nice it you could actually measure something with it? How about a 4-point pressure pad with an individual pressure sensor under each wheel? The Windsible does generate enough flow to create downforce and induce lift. The ability to gather real time data like this could elevate it to "tool" status.
- nascar aero tests on a rolling surface. movement of the surface, and spinning of the wheels have a huge effect, too — dr_dodge
- so add belt sander to shop vac plexi tube — dr_dodge
- Check out the Hot Wheels Tune-Up Tower. — LobotomyScam
"Momma said No" will be the name of a future drag racer I'm gonna build