Abstract

This report outlines the rationale and design constraints for Wash U Racing’s WUFR-19 suspension for the 2019 FSAE Michigan competition. This includes competition rules, team design goals of drivability and control, and compliance with good engineering practices. To stay competitive, the team has reinvented the design philosophy of the car for the 2019 season, highlighting the use of multiple software packages and several parallel problem-solving methods when possible. The system was designed using MATLAB, SolidWorks, and OptimumKinematics racing software. Simulations were created to evaluate the car’s grip potential through heave, pitch, roll, and steer motions. These results were compared with tire data models to tune for improved control at peak conditions. Additionally, kinematic equations were used along with sensor data from past iterations of Wash U Racing projects to alternatively predict handling capabilities for the new platform. This paved the way for the creation of front and rear geometries in SolidWorks to be the basis for the WUFR-19 chassis and the rest of the project development.

Document Type

Final Report

Author's School

McKelvey School of Engineering

Author's Department

Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science

Class Name

Mechanical Engineering and Material Sciences Independent Study

Date of Submission

1-11-2019

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