The student completed a research-based thesis in collaboration with Škoda Auto. In the course of his work, he gained a detailed insight into the aerodynamics of cars and the principles of add-on aerodynamic components designed to reduce drag and improve vehicle stability. Based on the knowledge gained, he proceeded to define a design parameter represented by the length of the finlets at the rear of the vehicle, which he used to create a set of evaluated geometries.

He verified the impact of the proposed modifications on the vehicle’s aerodynamic characteristics using an advanced CFD simulation model for key driving modes. The results achieved and analysis are of a high professional standard, which is further confirmed by the use of methodologies from a company that is a world leader in its field. During the course of his work, the student proceeded systematically and demonstrated the ability to independently solve engineering problems using modern CAE tools.

The thesis meets all the specified objectives, and I recommend it for defense with a grade of A.

Mr. Galáš, in the framework of his diploma thesis, addressed a very interesting and practically oriented problem—the influence of so-called finlets on the directional stability of a passenger vehicle.

The work has a systematic and logical structure. After a theoretical introduction explaining the nomenclature and key specifics of automotive aerodynamics, including the phenomena of aerodynamic effects during cornering and directional stability, the student defined the problem of finlet device design.

In the subsequent chapters, he presents the steps involved in the preparation of the computational model and the execution of CFD simulations. The student then discusses the results from the perspective of vehicle stability during a cornering manoeuvre, as well as from a performance standpoint, considering drag and downforce for the baseline geometry of a Škoda hatchback vehicle.

In cooperation with the Škoda aerodynamic department, he proposed several iterative design modifications aimed at improving vehicle stability and performed simulations of these configurations. Finally, he compared the results with the baseline geometry and concluded that any improvement in stability achieved through the iterative designs is accompanied by a degradation in vehicle performance, specifically due to increased drag and lift on the rear axle.

The thesis is written in a consistent and straightforward manner. The only notable shortcoming is the lack of detailed information regarding the finlet design iterations. This raises the question of whether the alternative finlet geometries were developed independently by the student or provided by the industrial partner.

Through this work, he demonstrated his ability to independently and creatively solve complex engineering problems.

The work is written in consistent and straightforward way. The only flaw is absence of more information about iterations of design of finlets. This leads to question if alternative shapes of finlets were produced by student or he them were given to student by Skoda. 

Through this work, he demonstrated his ability to independently and creatively solve complex engineering problems. Topics for thesis defence:

1. Could you provide a more detailed description of the algorithm employed for the iterative design of the finlet shape? Specifically, it would be helpful to clarify whether the approach was based on semi-heuristic rules or if it involved a more sophisticated numerical optimization framework (e.g., gradient-based methods, evolutionary algorithms, or topology optimization techniques).