3D printing is making significant strides in the automotive sector, particularly within Formula 1, where its adoption is becoming increasingly prevalent. Teams like Visa Cash App RB, in collaboration with ROBOZE, and McLaren, which is actively developing prototypes, are at the forefront of this innovation. This technology is rapidly revolutionizing the landscape of high-speed, high-performance racing such as Formula 1. Racing teams are embracing 3D printing for several reasons: reducing car weight, consolidating parts for greater reliability, and, most importantly, enhancing overall performance.
The Oracle Red Bull Racing team distinguishes itself through its use of cutting-edge technologies, thanks to its collaboration with Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence. As the manufacturer’s champion since 2022, Red Bull Racing is dedicated to maintaining its leading position in the highly competitive world of motorsport. This partnership with Hexagon primarily aims to accelerate engineering and manufacturing processes to gain crucial fractions of a second on the racetrack.
3D Printing Speeds Up Development at Red Bull Racing
Hexagon provides the solutions that ensure the Red Bull is always ready for competition throughout the season. This long-standing partnership, which has lasted for 18 years, has enabled Red Bull to adopt and test new technologies. As a preferred testing partner for cutting-edge innovations, Red Bull enjoys a strategic advantage in rapidly integrating the latest advances into their development process. One of the major successes of this collaboration is the significant 50% reduction in manufacturing defects over the last two years. Maintaining a balance between speed and quality is essential for this team, a reality made possible by these constant innovations.
Red Bull utilizes digital twins and simulations to design and test their cars virtually before creating physical prototypes. The entire design process is conducted in CAD, followed by simulator testing, where the car’s performance is accurately replicated on specific world circuits. After evaluating the digital models, Red Bull employs stereolithography 3D printing to produce physical prototypes. This cost-effective method significantly accelerates the development process. Earlier this year, it was reported that Red Bull Racing had tested a 3D-printed drone developed by Dutch Drone Gods. This drone, capable of reaching speeds up to 350 km/h, was used to follow Max Verstappen’s new Red Bull Racing RB20 F1 car around a complete lap of the Silverstone Grand Prix circuit. The objective was to evaluate the car’s speed and performance in action.
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Development
The Red Bull Racing car adapts exceptionally well to various climatic conditions. The team carefully manages each component, with a two-week lifecycle for each manufactured part. Moreover, integrating artificial intelligence into their development and design processes represents a significant advancement. AI enhances collaborative efforts and improves decision-making efficiency, which has profound implications for the future of automotive design and production. Red Bull’s strategic partnerships with technology leaders and their ability to quickly test and implement innovations provide them with a substantial competitive edge.
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*All Photo Credits: Oracle Red Bull Racing