Pipe profile optimization of formula student chassis for torsional stiffness

Abstract

One of the key aspects of designing a formula student car chassis is torsional stiffness. High torsional stiffness gives stability to the suspension system and provides better handling of the car. This paper presents an investigation into the optimization of the torsional stiffness of formula student chassis’ structure using Finite Element Analysis (FEA). Three sets of pipe profiles are considered, each produced chassis with different masses, and their torsional stiffness is analyzed in ANSYS. The profiles are selected within the limit prescribed by the formula student UK rules, and round pipes are used. The chassis is designed in SOLIDWORKS and then analyzed in ANSYS for torsional stiffness. The selected chassis for analysis have masses of 32.1 Kgs, 45.0 Kgs, and 47.2 Kgs based on the pipe sizing used in each chassis. These findings have important implications for the design and optimization of formula student chassis, particularly in terms of balancing the trade-off between mass and torsional stiffness. Overall, this paper contributes to the ongoing research into the optimization of formula student chassis.