|
Aero Package
To capitalize on
new aero regulations for the 2011 season, the 2011 car featured a
completely redesigned aero system featuring a front and rear wing.
The wings featured new wing element designs and a foam core and
unidirectional carbon fiber manufacturing method
Extensive CFD was conducted to determine the ideal wing element
geometries and number of elements. The final design was a 3
element front and rear wing.
Another new
development for 2011 was wind tunnel testing. Through the
generosity of Ford Motor Company and Jacobs Engineering, our team was
able to conduct a test session in the Ford Wind Tunnel. This was
an eye-opening experience and allowed for CFD validation. The test
session has enabled our team to take our designs to the next level and
the benefits will be reaped for years to come.
Brakes
In an effort to
reduce unsprung and rotating mass, the 2011 car featured cold-sprayed
Aluminum metal-matrix composite brake rotors. The development of
the rotors was conducted in conjuction with the SDSM&T AMP Center and
allowed the rotors to weigh 50% less than their stainless steel
predecessors.
Engine Cradle
A key design
change for 2011 was the incorporation of an engine cradle for increased
serviceability. This change required significant redesigns of the
frame, engine and electrical systems. The cradle incorporates the
cooling, oiling, fuel and electrical systems into a single unit and can
be removed as a single unit, reducing engine removal and service time.
Additionally, the cradle allows for the engine to be running on the
track during the day and on the dyno at night, with the transition only
taking minutes.
|
