F1 engineers are using Dymola to improve performance across multiple domains

Dymola is used by 7 of the 12 Formula 1 teams contesting the 2010 FIA world championship.

This advanced engineering software solution is being used to develop a variety of different systems including powertrain, hydraulics, vehicle dynamics and driver-in-the-loop simulators.  In previous years, KERS has also been developed and optimised using Dymola.  The teams are utilising the multi-domain modelling and efficient simulation provided by Dymola to deliver performance improvements on the track.

The component orientated modelling methodology utilised by Dymola enables the simulation departments within these teams to keep pace with the fast pace of development set by the design departments. Traditional simulation approaches using block diagrams or in-house c-code programmes have usually lagged behind the rapid design changes.  This has often led to the setup tools used by the race engineers at the track to also lag behind the current design of the cars on the track.

Using Dymola, it is now possible for the simulation departments to keep pace with the designers using the physical modelling approach to simplify the modelling process.  The model export features available for Dymola then enable the developed models to be exported and embedded with in the race engineers setup tools using a standard interface enabling updated models to be quickly deployed to the race team.

The multi-domain modelling and simulation capabilities available in Dymola enable model sharing across the race team.  This means that the detailed multibody vehicle dynamics model created to model the suspension and tyre performance can also be used by the powertrain group to explore how the transmission and driveline affect the handling of the car. Through the use of the hydraulics, electrical and control system libraries the complete performance of the car can be modelled.

Model reuse and sharing extends in to the test groups where the same Dymola models can be compiled for hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulation using dSpace, xPC or vTag real-time simulation environments.  The same model could also be exported for use in a full driver-in-the-loop simulator system such as those offered by rFactor Pro.

So when you’re asked what software is being used by F1 teams for performance and improvement - you can answer confidently - F1 teams are probably using Dymola.