Launch control (automotive)
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Launch control is an
Popular
Operation
Launch control operates by using an electronic
Aftermarket launch control
- Two-Step Rev Limiting
Modern vehicles are increasingly becoming equipped with launch control features available straight from the factory. However, if a vehicle doesn’t come equipped with such features, then aftermarket forms of launch control can be purchased and installed. A common form of aftermarket launch control is commonly known as two-step rev limiting. A two-step rev limiter is a module that regulates the engines rpms for a controlled launch and optimal power settings. Two step limiting confines rpms at two sperate points. The first point is programmed to limit the revolutions to a desirable launch range and the second point is limited to protect the engine from over revving. The limiting itself is controlled through the modulator by regulating the fuel and ignition. Once the desired revolutions are met the two-step system will adjust these parameters allowing for power production to cease until released.[3] Its important to note that two step rev limitation is only a viable option with a manual transmission car. Launch control for an automatic transmission car requires a different set up.
Reason for use
Racing drivers have only a very short time at the start of a race in which to achieve competitive acceleration. High power delivery to the gearbox and driven wheels cannot easily be managed even by the most skilled drivers.
Launch control was originally intended to give cars the ability to accelerate as fast as possible regarding optimal engine conditions from a stop. However, car communities around the United States have begun to organize events surrounded around the byproduct of launch control systems, this byproduct is usually called a backfire. Using aftermarket launch control systems allows for drivers to manipulate the fuel and ignition settings. To create a backfire, the ignition settings are turned down allowing for a build up of excess fuel which creates a larger combustion producing loud bangs and pops from the exhaust. In some instances the launch control systems are modified to produce large flames that also expel from the exhaust pipe. Competitions are held in car communities based on achieving the loudest backfire or producing the largest flame. [4]
History
Developments in electronics in the 1980s enabled the introduction of launch control. In 1985,
Among the electronic driving aids were a
From being a feature that was predominately seen only in race cars, launch control is now featured in almost all modern consumer car brands. Brands such as BMW, Dodge, and Mercedes all have implemented a launch feature in select models of their vehicles. [15]
Motorcycle usage
Street motorcycles have been fitted with factory devices to balance power characteristics to rider requirements.[16] Competition entrants can call it "holeshot".[17][18] Race machines are increasingly using additional suspension-altering technology to lower the stance and aid aerodynamics.[19][20][17]
Motocross bikes use mechanical holeshot devices to temporarily compress the front suspension prior to race-start.[21][22]
Gallery
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Center console where the launch control switch can be seen to the left
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Picture of the cabin of aFerrari FXX, where the launch control button can be seen in the middle of the center console
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Toyota Formula 1steering wheel with a launch control button in the middle to the left
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Caterham Formula 1 with a launch control button at the mid-bottom
References
- ^ Mitani, Sam (17 March 2009). "2010 Nissan GT-R". www.roadandtrack.com. Retrieved 19 January 2020.
- ^ "What is Launch Control, and How Does it Work?". J.D. Power. Retrieved 2023-02-14.
- ^ Menon, Kiran (2020-09-30). "How A Two-Step Rev Limiter Works And If It's Bad For Your Car". HotCars. Retrieved 2023-02-14.
- ^ McGraw, Jesse (2021-07-03). "The Flames & Pops of Two Step Backfire Competitions". carsforsale.
- ^ "F1 Regulations - Formula 1 Rules and Regulations for the 2004 F1 Season". www.newsonf1.com. Retrieved 2020-11-10.
- ^ "Development of Traction Control Systems for Formula One" (PDF). www.f1-forecast.com. Retrieved 2020-12-06.
- ^ Masefield, Fraser (2013-10-19). "What Has F1 Ever Done for Us?". Bleacher Report. Retrieved 2020-12-06.
- ^ "F1 Regulations - Formula 1 Rules and Regulations for the 2004 F1 Season". www.newsonf1.com. Retrieved 6 December 2020.
- ^ "Traction Control to Stay in F1 in 2004 - F1 - Autosport". autosport.com. Retrieved 12 November 2020.
- ^ "FIA makes massive changes to F1; several technological enhancements banned". Autoweek. 14 January 2003. Retrieved 12 November 2020.
- ^ "Knutson: F1 shifting gears, literally". ESPN.com. 22 February 2004. Retrieved 12 November 2020.
- ^ "Less electronics will make life interesting". au.motorsport.com. Retrieved 12 November 2020.
- ^ F1 2004 - Australian GP Highlights (Greek Subs). F 1racingnews. 13 January 2019. Archived from the original on 2021-12-21. Retrieved 30 August 2021 – via YouTube.
- ^ "Traction control banned in F1 beginning in 2008". Autoblog. Retrieved 12 November 2020.
- ^ "Cars With Launch Control: Houston, We Have Lift Off!". Automotive Addicts. Retrieved 2023-02-14.
- Motorcycle News, 11 November 2016. Retrieved 10 April 2021
- ^ a b Qatar MotoGP: Alex Rins: I forgot launch control, difficult to manage the power! crash.net, 30 March 2021. Retrieved 10 April 2021
- ^ The science behind a MotoGP holeshot device crash.net, 4 September 2019. Retrieved 10 April 2021
- ^ What We Learned From The Ducati 2021 MotoGP Launch motomatters.com, 15 February 2021. Retrieved 10 April 2021
- ^ Ducati Posts Record MotoGP Top Speed ADVrider, 2 April 2021. Retrieved 10 April 2021
- ^ Suspension restraint devices Google Patents. Retrieved 11 April 2021
- ^ Zeta Holeshot Assist, Product review feature fullnoise.com.au, 9 March 2019. Retrieved 11 April 2021