15 replies to this topic

[RickyV]

Greeting everyone,

 

My name is Ricky V and I run a site called Race Optimal.  Basically, I developed a program to analyze 2D data (that means no camber or elevation considerations) and calculate the "optimal" line around a racetrack.  All tracks include analysis specifically for the Mazda Miata.  I also produce video simulations for the four major vehicle types, which are accessible by clicking the play button in the upper right hand corner of the map.

 

You may be saying "What?? No elevation data?"  Well, yes.  Ideally, 3D effects would be included, but when it comes to their effect on the actual line, it is often subtle enough that it's hard to tell the difference looking at an overhead map.  

 

My goal for this project is to help experienced drivers get new ideas about what line might work the best and where, and to help inexperienced drivers understand and visualize the concept of the racing line.

 

I'd be honored if you'd take a look, and even more honored if the project actually helped you get more comfortable or shave time at the track. 

 

Of course, I'm open to any feedback you might have, as well.

 

Cheers,

 

Ricky

[RickyV]

Also I forgot to mention, but was reminded by a PM I received - the simulation does indeed produce some "not ideal in the real world" behavior in places.  You can leave comments below each map - other users will definitely benefit from knowledgeable drivers pointing out where the optimization has failed, so please, don't hold back!

[G.Obadia]

That's cool!

[RacerX]

Interesting, it proposes slight differences from the classical line for the tracks I'm familiar with, including some I'm going to try.

 

Thanks for posting and look forward to the feedback from the front of the pack guys.

[RickyV]

Interesting, it proposes slight differences from the classical line for the tracks I'm familiar with, including some I'm going to try.

 

Thanks for posting and look forward to the feedback from the front of the pack guys.

 

Out of curiosity, what are some of the lines you think it might be worth experimenting with?

[Dan Tiley]

I love nerdy stuff like this.  Good stuff Ricky!

[DrDomm]

Very cool.

[Bench Racer]

Very interesting stuff. I looked at a couple sections at Road America, the line from T1 to T3 I would have suspected at T2 would have been closer to the inside and breaking the hill pre T5 is spot on.

[Johnny D]

Very Cool, Can I request Sonoma Please

Thank you,

J~

[Xav]

Very cool.. I'm fascinated by T1 VIR... makes me wonder some...   although I will admit the proof of the double apex at oak tree is nice..  

[spruill242]

God I would love to see an F1 car do 200+ up the climbing S's at VIR! Very cool thanks! 

[38bfast]

Very cool stuff. Intersting the change of lines with the different cars

[RickyV]

Very Cool, Can I request Sonoma Please

Thank you,

J~

 

Sonoma will be added in the next update!

[Glenn Davis]

Nice job!  I will use this as scouting when I go to new tracks.

 

I don't know anybody that uses two apexes at Summit Point T-1/2, but that behavior may be due to the condition of the track surface prior to the last upgrade.  I'll definitely give that a try.  I've always had a problem getting through VIR T-1 fast, so I'm willing to try anything there...

[RickyV]

Nice job!  I will use this as scouting when I go to new tracks.

 

I don't know anybody that uses two apexes at Summit Point T-1/2, but that behavior may be due to the condition of the track surface prior to the last upgrade.  I'll definitely give that a try.  I've always had a problem getting through VIR T-1 fast, so I'm willing to try anything there...

 

If it occurs to you, I would appreciate an update when you get the chance to go back to the track, letting me know what helped and what didn't!

[Ralph Dommes]

I'll give it a shot too at Summit Point - it does show non- traditional paths...