The formula SAE project in its essence is a time management project and has always been an aspect that previous teams struggle with. The schedule is broken down into three phases: Design, Manufacturing, Testing. The Design phase will consist of research, concept, modeling, and simulation. Manufacturing will include everything to building and assembly of the vehicle. Testing will be on a full system approach to the verify our calculations and fixing any problems that arise. The Design phase is from August to October which after Manufacturing will begin. We aim to start testing a vehicle by the start of February and continue up till middle of May. This year we have made an aggressive schedule to help produce a vehicle that we will be able to test before going to competition.

Chassis & Aerodynamics

A stable aerodynamic concept must be designed with multiple driving situations in mind: straight ahead, cornering, and hard braking.  The aim is to design and manufacture a frame and accompanying aero components that minimize weight seamlessly integrating both suspension and powertrain components.  The full package will provide significant driver protection and optimize performance components.  The full package will provide significant driver protection and optimize performance on the track, all withing FSAE guideline. The chasis will be fabricated in steel and the aerodynamic package will be fabricated using carbon fiber sandwich composite.  Weight loss at the chassis frame coupled with component accessibility by simplifies component integrations and amplifies the design elegance and vehicle performance.  This makes for a great step forward in the modularity of the car.

Suspension

The main objective of the suspension subsystem is to connect the chassis of the vehicle to the ground through the use of components such as springs, dampers, rods, bell cranks, bearings, tires, and wheels. The system is designed to ensure safety and performance in high speed cornering, braking, and effective power transmission from the engine to the wheels. Further, the suspension will be adjustable so that it may be tuned to driver preference and specific event goals. The key objectives for RWR this year are to decrease aerodynamic drag and secondly improve packaging.  These will be accomplished by relocating the shock absorbers inboard producing a lower profile damping system.  Key improvements tothe the prior year, include implementing anti-roll capability, camber adjustability, anti-squat and anti-dive systems.  Suspension handling of 1.5 G’s while cornering is desired at 30 mph on the track.  Rapid prototyping techniques will also be used to create mock-up components and assemblies for further subsystem integration.

Powertrain

The purpose of powertrain is to optimize the power delivery originating from the engine to the wheels. This year, powertrain team aims to produce a durable and reliable system that ensures all of its components hold up for all dynamic events.  Standing on the back of proven components, the powertrain system will encompass a modular design that allow for a streamline innovation process.  A naturally aspirated single cylinder 450cc engine, mechanically operated shifter with hydraulic clutch, and a dry sump oil system will pave the way futher integrations and testing iterations.  A bonafide system will likely ensure compliance in technical inspection and gauged performance in dynamic events at competition.  It will also create the stepping stone needed for a legacy of success.  This aligns well with the goals of RWR in producing the platform for greater innovation.