Understanding Formula 1: Cockpit

In the “Understanding Formula 1″ series today we dive in an F1 Cockpit and see what sort of devices are present inside the cockpit.

An F1 driver is subjected to very heavy G-forces and so the teams try to provide maximum driving comfort.So, we first discuss about the Driver’s seat.

The Formula 1 seats are different for each driver as the seats are made according to the body structure of each driver.This is done to ensure maximum driving comfort.The teams also have to ensure that seats don’t spring out in case of a accident and so a lot of time is spent to make these seats.

Next up we discuss the driver’s position inside the cockpit.To understand driver’s position we take a daily life example.Imagine that you are sitting on a chair or sofa and have put you legs on a table which is slightly higher than the sofa.The position you will be in is more or less what driver’s position is inside the cockpit.

Now, lets discuss about the levers and paddles present inside the cockpit.There are two paddles for accelerator and the brake.Some teams also have a third pedal which is used to operate the DRS wing. Eg: Mercedes and Ferrari.

You may have often seen drivers adjusting levers up and down as they approach the corners.The lever which the driver adjusts is the brake balance lever and is present usually on the left hand side of the driver. At certain circuits drives adjust brake balance from corner to corner.

The steering wheel is the most important device in the cockpit and it is the command center of the driver.All the components of the car can be controlled by adjusting the dials and the buttons present on the steering wheel.To know more about the buttons and knobs present on the steering wheel you can read my article “All about Formula 1 Steering wheel”.

Other articles in Understanding Formula 1 Series:

1. https://www.sportskeeda.com/2012/08/29/the-working-of-kinetic-energy-recovery-system-kers/

2.https://www.sportskeeda.com/2012/05/11/insight-into-f1-strategy/

3.https://www.sportskeeda.com/2012/02/24/all-about-the-formula-1-steering-wheel/

4.https://www.sportskeeda.com/2012/05/10/the-range-of-pirelli-tyres-used-in-f1/

5.https://www.sportskeeda.com/2012/08/30/the-technology-behind-formula-1-cars-part-1/

6.https://www.sportskeeda.com/2012/09/03/understanding-formula-1-race-start-procedure/

7.https://www.sportskeeda.com/2012/09/05/understanding-formula-1-video-demonstration-of-basic-systems-in-an-f1-car/