Revving Up Formula 1: The Game-Changing Role of Neural Concept’s Aerodynamic AI

From Bicycles to F1 Racetrack

The AI-based startup Neural Concept, led by co-founder and CEO Pierre Baqué, has journeyed from developing software for creating the world's most aerodynamic bicycle to shaping the future of Formula 1. Over the past six years, the fledgling technology evolved and escalated to a point where 40% of Formula 1 teams now incorporate it into their systems.

Tracing back to 2018, this remarkable transition started when Baqué was attempting to solve complex three-dimensional issues with machine learning techniques at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne's Computer Vision Laboratory. Collaborating with Guillaume DeFrance and his team from the Université Savoie Mont Blanc (IUT Annecy), they aimed to design a breakthrough bike that would clinch the world record.

Two days later, Baqué returned with an almost identical design to the current record-holder. The final result was, according to Baqué, “the most aerodynamic bike worldwide.”

The Core Technology: Neural Concept Shape

Neural Concept Shape (NCS) is more than a product; it's an innovative system that employs machine learning to render recommendations and suggestions for aerodynamics. It operates in synergy with the broader computational fluid dynamics (CFD) realm, where skilled engineers integrate sophisticated software to execute three-dimensional aerodynamic simulations.

Aside from being faster than physically creating models and testing them in wind tunnels, the NCS plays a crucial role in assisting engineers in navigating potential aerodynamic pitfalls while venturing into fresh dimensions. By working in conjunction with an engineer, the NCS allows users to upload an existing 3D shape, which serves as a reference point. The impressive synergy of man and machine then propels the designs to an undreamed height of aerodynamic mastery.

Revolutionizing Industries Beyond Racing

While most of its accomplishments are highlighted in Formula 1, Neural Concept has its imprint in the automotive and aerospace industries. Entrenched in slower-paced growth within the aerospace industry, the company decided to focus more on automotive where changes are adopted more rapidly. Several renowned suppliers, such as Bosch and Mahle, have now formed contracts with Neural Concept.

Aerodynamics is crucial in the automotive industry, with manufacturers competing to produce the most aerodynamic cars for maximum battery range. However, the NCS also contributes to the development of more efficient battery-cooling plates. This, in turn, can maintain the optimal battery temperature without wasting too much energy, leading to enhanced car performance.

From Netflix to the Formula 1's Hall of Fame

Netflix’s “Formula 1: Drive to Survive” series has popularized Formula 1 among a new demographic. Baqué, who has been a fan of the sport since the heyday of legends like David Coulthard and Michael Schumacher, expressed great joy seeing his product at the highest level of motorsport. However, secrets abound in Formula 1, as teams are hesitant to share their strategies. Nevertheless, Neural Concept has found a formidable partner in Williams Racing, setting new benchmarks in F1 history.

Formula 1 Reconstructed: Neural Concept's Contribution

Neural Concept is assisting the iconic Williams Racing on their journey back to the top. A sports entity founded by racing legend Frank Williams, the team saw a period of dominance in the 1990s and is currently in a rebuilding phase. NCS is an essential tool that is expediting Williams Racing's return to dominance.

Williams Head of Aerodynamic Technology, Hari Roberts, reported that NCS has significantly improved their car simulation and helps them to deliver better results first-hand in CFD. In addition, the NCS software fast-tracks the aerodynamics of the cars, with full CFD simulation that usually takes an hour now completed within 20 seconds. The artificially-intelligent tool from Neural Concept, not bound by F1's strict regulations, is helping to give Williams Racing a competitive edge in the world's premier racing competition.

While Neural Concept continues to make strides into non-motorsport parts of the automotive industry, the future of its technological prowess could help engineers optimize a car's crashworthiness. There's no doubt that this pioneering Swiss-based startup is sowing seeds for a significant technological revolution in the automotive industry.