FLIR Systems, Inc. has been named an Innovation Partner by Infiniti Red Bull Racing. The winner of four consecutive Formula One World Championships in both Constructor’s and Driver’s categories, Infiniti Red Bull Racing will work with FLIR thermography technology to gather temperature data from its 2014 challenger, the RB10.
FLIR will develop solutions using world-class miniature thermal cameras to provide the Infiniti Red Bull Racing team with unique insights into the thermal characteristics of their cars’ components and operations.
The introduction of 1.6 litre V6 turbocharged engines with dual energy recovery systems has presented significant cooling challenges for all Formula One teams in 2014. Managing car temperatures effectively will be a key aspect of ensuring reliability, a factor which is expected to play a significant role in determining the outcome of this season.
According to Christian Horner, Team Principal of Infiniti Red Bull Racing, given the changes to Formula One this year, the team, which is most efficient in gathering the relevant data, learning effectively, and adapting accordingly will be the one that triumphs. He is confident that the insights provided by FLIR technology will be critical to their understanding of the new car and could give them a key edge over their rivals.
Thermal imaging has become a vital tool for controlling thermal management and tyre performance. FLIR’s background in designing and building military-grade hardware will be a crucial factor in making this technology work in the harsh environments seen in modern Formula One racing.
Andy Teich, President and CEO of FLIR comments the launch of their revolutionary Lepton thermal micro-camera has seen numerous applications for thermal technology in the racing world. FLIR is also launching several new consumer oriented products with this technology.