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Session 3268

The Formula SAE® Racecar Project at WPI

Joseph J. Rencis1 Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Abstract

The Formula SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) is a design-based competition that is attended by universities throughout the world. The competition is for engineering students to conceive, design, fabricate, construct, test, and market a prototype formula-style racecar. The objective of this paper is to discuss some of the aspects of entering and competing effectively in the competition. At the end of this paper some aspects of engineering mechanics carried out by students in the suspension group are discussed. The model of the Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) is featured.

1. Introduction

The Formula SAE Competition is provides an opportunity for students to apply their theoretical knowledge to practical situations, gain hands-on experience, and at the same time get credit for their work. This project prepares a student to solve a real-world problem that is ill defined, interdisciplinary, and open-ended. Most of the students have never had to face the issue of solving an open-ended problem with no single correct answer. The students at first are uncomfortable with the situation and were troubled that the answers were not found in books. It is very important that the advisors play an active role by structuring the project for the team, each technical group and each student. Constant sharing of ideas and coaching reduces tensions.

This paper will first discuss the concept of the competition and the events. The paper will then address the team composition, grading, team and group structure, team and group meetings, team schedules and deadlines, and fielding a competitive team, The paper will also discuss some engineering mechanics applications that are associated with the suspension system.

2. Formula SAE Competition and Events

The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) sponsors a Series of Collegiate Design Competitions [1] that include Aero Design®, Formula SAE®, Formula Student, Mini Baja®, 1 Professor of Engineering Mechanics, Mechanical Engineering Department

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Rencis, J. (2000, June), The Formula Sae Racecar Project At Wpi Paper presented at 2000 Annual Conference, St. Louis, Missouri. 10.18260/1-2--8389