First let’s define what this means: Telemetry is a technology that allows remote measurement and transmission of information. The Greek root of the word is that tele means remote, and metron means measure. Telecommand is, in a way, a response to telemetry, as it means sending a command or instruction.
Telemetry is an important factor in F1, because it allows engineers to collect a huge amount of data during a race. The data can then be interpreted and used to ensure that the car is performing at its optimum. F1 systems in particular have advanced such that even the potential lap time of the car can be calculated. Examples of operating data collected from an F1 car:
- acceleration (G force) in all 3 axis
- temperature readings (brakes, tyres, engine, transmission, etc.)
- wheel speed
- suspension movement
- hydraulic pressure
- track position.
Driver inputs are also recorded so that the team can assess performance and, in the case of an accident, the FIA can determine or rule out driver error as a possible cause. Examples of driver inputs:
- brake pedal movement
- accelerator pedal movement
- steering angle
- gear position.
Two way telemetry (telemetry and telecommand) is possible and was originally developed by TAG Electronics. This system started as a way to send a message to the driver to a system allowing the race engineers to update the car in real time, for example, changing engine mapping. However, the FIA banned two-way telemetry from F1 in 2003. F1 teams take a huge quantity of computer equipment to each race to help the drivers and engineers to find the right set-up and cure any car problems.
An F1 car can use two types of telemetry:
- real time information, which is sent in small packets (track position and basic sensor readings)
- a microwave burst, which is sent as the car passes the pits.
This data burst can contain around 4 MB of information giving the engineers a vital insight into the state of the car. The telemetry is transmitted by a small aerial located on the car. This is usually located on the sidepod or wing mirror nearest to the pits. A further 40 MB (or thereabouts) can be downloaded from the car by plugging in a laptop. The socket usually located in the sidepod or near the fuel filler.
A bank of computers is used to process the information sent by the cars whilst they are on track. These computers use software provided by companies such as Hewlett Packard, Compaq and TAG Electronics. The software displays the information on screens in a way that can be interpreted by the engineers. During a race, readings such as engine temperature and hydraulic pressure are examined in detail to make sure that a major failure is not imminent. If any readings go above or below what is normally expected, the engineers can radio the driver and, for example, ask them to use less engine revs or brake earlier to try and prevent failure.
McLaren have developed their own system called the Advanced Telemetry Linked Acquisition System (ATLAS). This system displays graphs of each of the cars’ systems in real time at all parts of the track. Most of the top teams have similar systems, but it is considered that McLaren’s is currently one of the best.
See: http://www.mclarenelectronics.com/Products/All/sw_atlas.asp for more information.