Learning Partnerships, Unit Catalogue 2008/09 |
AS20265 Dynamics of competition and performance vehicles |
| Credits: 10 |
| Level: Intermediate |
| Semester: 1 at Wiltshire College |
| Assessment: CW 50%, OT 50% |
| Requisites: |
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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. |