Skip to content

Welcome to Applied Racing Dynamics

Welcome! We're glad you're here. This documentation is designed to help you get the most out of the Applied Racing Dynamics platform.

What is Applied Racing Dynamics?

Applied Racing Dynamics (ARD) is a comprehensive vehicle dynamics simulation and analysis platform built for racing engineers and teams. Whether you're optimizing lap times, analyzing suspension geometry, or correlating simulation with real-world telemetry, ARD provides the tools you need.

What You'll Find Here

This documentation will guide you through:

  • Getting Started - Your first steps with ARD, from creating an account to running your first simulation
  • User Interface - Understanding the core UI elements: Setup Command Palette, Setup Selector, Tree View, Navigation Bar, User Settings, Activity Centre, and Spreadsheet Editor
  • Vehicle Setup - Building detailed vehicle models including chassis, aerodynamics, kinematics, tyres, brakes, powertrain, suspension, and track configuration
  • Simulations - Running Lap Time (QSS), Cornering, Straight Line, Sweep, Ride Analysis, Handling, and Calculation simulations
  • Results & Analysis - Trace View, Metrics, Parallel Coordinate Plots, File Viewer, Results Upload, and Vehicle Compare
  • Tips & Tricks - Measurement guides, uploading .TIR files, and best practices

How to Use This Documentation

New to ARD?

If you're just getting started, we recommend following this path:

  1. Getting Started - Learn the basics and run your first simulation
  2. User Interface - Familiarize yourself with the Setup Command Palette, Setup Selector, and Tree View
  3. Vehicle Setup - Initialize and configure your vehicle model
  4. Simulations - Run your first lap time simulation
  5. Results & Analysis - Interpret your simulation data

Looking for Something Specific?

Use the search bar at the top of the page to quickly find what you need, or browse the navigation menu on the left to explore topics by category.

Visual Learner?

Throughout the documentation, you'll find:

  • Screenshots showing key features and workflows
  • Step-by-step guides with images
  • Diagrams explaining concepts and processes

Key Features at a Glance

Vehicle Modeling

Build comprehensive vehicle models with detailed subsystems including:

  • Chassis - Mass, inertia, and centre of gravity
  • Aerodynamics - Drag, downforce, and aero maps
  • Kinematics - Suspension geometry and motion ratios
  • Tyres - Tyre models and compound data
  • Brakes - Brake system configuration
  • Powertrain - Engine, electric motor, battery, gears, differential, and efficiency
  • Suspension - Springs, dampers, anti-roll bars, and bump stops

Multiple Simulation Types

Powerful Analysis Tools

Cloud-Based Platform

Access your work from anywhere, collaborate with your team, and leverage cloud computing for complex simulations.

Need Help?

We're here to support you:

Keep Learning

The ARD platform is continuously evolving with new features and improvements. This documentation is regularly updated to reflect the latest capabilities and best practices.

Ready to begin? Head to the Getting Started guide to create your first vehicle and run your first simulation.