Scan-to-Map

Operate at the absolute peak of performance with our combined 3D Scanning and Mapping service

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Unlocking performance in homologated and one-make series

At Catesby Projects, we specialise in helping race teams gain a competitive edge when design is fixed or freedom is limited. Our advanced scan-to-map service delivers precise data-driven insight into your vehicle, enabling you to fully understand and optimise aerodynamic performance within the regulations.

By scanning and mapping your car, we provide the foundation to:

Feed accurate models into a driver-in-the-loop simulator
Arrive at the circuit with an optimised setup via lap simulation
Extract every possible advantage within permitted tolerances

High Resolution 3D Scanning

Advanced Kinematics

Multi – Parameter Aerodynamic Maps

Rapid development time

A unique combination of in-house scanning, advanced simulation toolsets, and access to Catesby Tunnel. This integrated capability delivers the hidden performance teams need to capture marginal gains and secure competitive advantage.

Establishing solid
foundations

From 3D Scanning to CAD model

Our engineers carry out high-resolution vehicle scanning either on-site or at our facility. Using state-of-the-art equipment, we capture full-vehicle geometry with accuracy to within 0.1 mm, suitable for CFD and detailed kinematic analysis.
We work with your team to disassemble components where required, ensuring all critical details are recorded. A typical scan requires two engineers over two to three days, depending on vehicle complexity.
Raw scan data is processed and aligned to produce a detailed digital model. Localised component scans are integrated with global vehicle scans, capturing critical areas such as the engine bay and wheel assemblies.
This is not a quick exterior scan, but a reverse engineering process that delivers accuracy approaching original CAD, providing a robust foundation for simulation and analysis.

CFD Baseline Model & Sensitivity Studies

The processed scan is converted into a high-fidelity CFD model with full suspension kinematics, enabling automated setup changes such as ride height, attitude, yaw, wing angle changes or following car scenarios at the click of a button.

For extended programmes, sensitivity studies are performed within homologation limits. These may include shimming for angle variation, aeroelastic assessments, sealing investigations, or floor stiffness checks. This process quantifies performance sensitivities and builds a deeper understanding of vehicle behaviour ahead of full aerodynamic mapping.

Aerodynamic Mapping

Mapping is the most computationally intensive stage of the process. Here, multi-parameter aerodynamic maps are generated, ranging from 2 to 7+ dimensions, covering variables such as yaw, roll, steer, corner radius, wing/flap settings, and following-car spacing.

Each simulation can be interrogated individually or compiled into a mapping sheet, where results are fitted mathematically to predict performance across any parameter combination.

Aerodynamic Mapping

Mapping is the most computationally intensive stage of the process. Here, multi-parameter aerodynamic maps are generated, ranging from 2 to 7+ dimensions, covering variables such as yaw, roll, steer, corner radius, wing/flap settings, and following-car spacing.

Each simulation can be interrogated individually or compiled into a mapping sheet, where results are fitted mathematically to predict performance across any parameter combination.

Validation

For enhanced confidence, computational maps can be validated in the Catesby Tunnel. This closes the loop between numerical prediction and experimental measurement, highlighting any offsets and refining correlation.

Programmes

Our programmes scale in complexity, from baseline scans and simple 2D maps through to multi-parameter CFD studies with integrated sensitivity analysis. Each step adds resolution and flexibility, unlocking additional performance potential within homologation limits.