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Driving upside-down in a circular track

Abstract

In this article, we point out an interesting solution for the dynamics of a racecar in a banked circular track with banking angle well over 90°. We call this track configuration an Inverted Track, at which a racecar can drive partially upside-down. We show an experimental setup, where we made a toy car to circulate upside-down held only by its friction to the track. We discuss the viability to perform the aforementioned stunt with a real racecar in terms of the velocities required, dimensions of the track and safety; provided a passionate motorsport related company to commission it. For most racecars, the aerodynamic down-force is significant and it is included in our analysis.

Keywords:
Inverted track; race-car; stunt; friction; counterintuitive drive

Sociedade Brasileira de Física Caixa Postal 66328, 05389-970 São Paulo SP - Brazil - São Paulo - SP - Brazil
E-mail: marcio@sbfisica.org.br