DATA LOGGING TOOLS
F1 cars have analog-digital converters and sensors applied inside the
car.
FOWSC cars have two tools available, in order to log the car performance.
These tools are GpPerf and GpLap, created by Trevor Kellaway, and available
at http://www.grandprix1.com/.
GPLAP
This tool collects and logs information about lap times, split lap
times (thirds of the lap) and statistics. It is very useful when comparing
your lap times. It also warns ou when you touch grass.
GPPERF
This tool collects and logs information about lap performance. It tracks
down your speed, RPMs, time, track position and steering wheel position.
DATA ANALYSIS TOOLS
Raw data collected by GpPerf and GpLap are little more than useless
without analyser software. Fortunately, this software exists, and it is
called GPA (Grand Prix Analyser), created by Steve Pritchard and available
at http://www.grandprix1.com/.
GPA
This tool analyse your lap logs created with GpPerf and GpLap. It can
show you comparative charts of different laps, so you can find where do
you make mistakes.
It shows 8 types of charts: speed, speed difference, time, time difference,
steering, accelerating/braking, RPMs and track map animation.
CORRECT USE OF DATA ANALYSIS TOOLS
The least and most experienced drivers do not like to use data analysis.
This means that they'll be faced with their opponents armed only with waterpistols
while their counterparts will be armed with guns.
Data analysis is not, however, the final word. The correct interpretation
is carried by the technician, the drivers and the manager. There are books
specialised in data analysis, such as Data Power, by Buddy Fey (Towery
Publishing). Here we'll resume the key tasks of the team when training
with data logging:
Engine RPM: Essential. Here we can see if the gear change is
correct, if the car slides, the gear change lag etc. Almost every change
we do will be reproduced in this chart. We could make a histogram to see
the most used revs.
Car Speed: Useful when comparing best laps versus normal laps.
Acceleration/Braking: Here we can see if the driver uses correctly
the traction circle (described earlier). When optimized, lap times will
drop.
Steering: Indicates oversteering and understeering, even if
the driver is unaware.
Time Charts: Indicates time gains and losses when compared with
best/worst laps.