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Learning Partnerships, Unit Catalogue 2011/12


AS20265: Dynamics of competition and performance vehicles

Click here for further information Credits: 10
Click here for further information Level: Intermediate (FHEQ level 5)
Click here for further information Period: Semester 1 at Wiltshire College
Click here for further information Assessment: CW 50%, OT 50%
Click here for further information Supplementary Assessment: Like-for-like reassessment (where allowed by programme regulations)
Click here for further information Requisites:
Click here for further information Description: Aims:
The aims of this unit are to:
* quantify the effect of human performance on the dynamics of a competition vehicle;
* illustrate the effects of design, and geometry of suspension and steering systems on performance competition vehicles;
* identify engineering design requirements of clients;
* develop the ability to produce operational plans.

Learning Outcomes:
On completion of the unit the student should be able to:
* establish base line measurements for the factors that impact on a competition vehicle's dynamic responses and handling characteristics;
* use suspension and dynamic response simulators;
* understand the design requirements for a competition vehicle's main structure;
* evaluate the effects of aerodynamic grip on mechanical grip;
* appreciate the effect of stability control systems and the limitations of how they are used within certain areas of motorsport;
* develop and implement operational plans.

Skills:
During the unit students should gain the following skills:
Intellectual:
* rationalise the data recorded from testing and implement a course of action to gain a performance improvement (A)
Professional:
* interpret the vehicle's performance data and liaise with the driver to produce an improvement in performance and driveability (T,A)
* record and evaluate current and previous performance data (T,A)
Practical:
* test measure and ascertain a vehicles base line suspension settings (T,A)
* implement set up changes (T,A)
* design improvements to a vehicles suspension systems (T,A)
Key:
* understanding the relationship between a vehicles static and dynamic settings and its performance (F).

Content:
This unit concentrates on:
* centre of gravity
* weight transfer
* roll centres location and control
* the relationship between static, dynamic and aerodynamic grip
* the relative effect of unsprung weight
* stability control systems
* dynamic response simulators i.e. Lotus Engineering and Vehicle Sim
* suspension geometries; camber, caster, Ackerman principles, bump steer, steering alignment
* suspension design
* damper rates
* calculating and selecting spring rates and frequency
* rising/falling rate suspension linkages
* the design of a competition vehicles main load bearing structure.
Click here for further informationProgramme availability:

AS20265 is Compulsory on the following programmes:

Learning Partnerships
  • UDAS-WFF05 : FdSc Motorsport Engineering (Full-time at Wiltshire College) - Year 2

NB. Programmes and units are subject to change at any time, in accordance with normal University procedures.