Design, build, and test a formula student racing car: An educational engineering exercise at Philadelphia University

Abstract

This current project is carried out at Philadelphia University and describes the work associated with the design, build, and test a Formula Student racing car in order to compete at Formula Student competition at UK 2014. Following the Formula Society of Automotive Engineers regulations 2014,1 this car must be a single seat car with an engine displacement not exceeding 610 cc. It is important to recognize that the design of a Formula Student racing car must involve the study of material structure, aerodynamics, suspension dynamics, internal combustion engine, selection of materials, and the requirements for manufacturing. All of these procedures must be followed to reach an optimum design. The challenge to teams is to develop a vehicle that can successfully compete in all the events (static and dynamic) described in the Formula Society of Automotive Engineers rules. This project is considered as an educational, practical, and training exercise on mechanical engineering principles for the undergraduate and graduate students. Also, it is a high performance engineering project for engineering students to acquire design concepts in automotive, engineering skills, and the freedom to express their creativity and imaginations. Finally, this project will develop experience, skills, and professionalism as ‘hands on engineers’, and hopefully to enhance automotive industry in Jordan.