FSAE CAR BODY DESIGN DRIVER

A comparison of frames tested in isolation versus whole vehicle testing is made, and a simple whole-car chassis torsion test method is discussed.

Finally, different experimental techniques are presented to determine what stiffness is actually achieved from a constructed vehicle. Some modeling guidelines are presented for both frames in isolation as well as the assembled vehicle including suspension. A finite element model is next developed to enable the analysis of different frame concepts. This model examines the frame and overall chassis torsional stiffness relative to the suspension spring and anti-roll bar rates.

Next a simple spring model is developed to determine targets for frame and overall chassis stiffness. The different loading conditions and requirements of the vehicle frame are first discussed focusing on road inputs and load paths within the structure. Formula SAE (FSAE) is a collegiate engineering and racing competition where teams from around the country, and the world, build a short-wheelbase racecar to compete in a variety of events at competition each year. The competition also includes some static design events, where the cost and design of the car is judged by a panel. The competition is for students to design, build and race small open-wheeled race cars against the clock in a number of events. The paper introduces several of the key concepts of frame design both analytical and experimental. Formula SAE (FSAE) car to compete in the December 2011 FSAE-A competition. We as a part of an FSAE team have taken up this project to develop a Hydraulic braking system of an FSAE car. Thus the methodology followed while designing such a braking system is different.

FSAE CAR BODY DESIGN DRIVER

This paper is taken from work completed by the first author as a member of the 1999 Cornell University Formula SAE Team and discusses several of the concepts and methods of frame design, with an emphasis on their applicability to FSAE cars. The initial design of an aerodynamics package for a Formula SAE car is described. An FSAE race car brake system is different from the conventional brakes. B6.1.1 The car must be equipped with a fully operational suspension system with shock absorbers, front and rear, with usable wheel travel of at least 50.8 mm (2 inches), 25.4 mm (1 inch) jounce and 25.4 mm (1 inch) rebound, with driver seated.

Fsae car body design