Design and optimization of a Formula SAE racecar chassis and suspension

Designing and constructing a chassis and suspension system for a Formula SAE racecar is a highly complex task involving the interaction of hundreds of parts that all perform an essential function. This thesis examines the critical factors in designing and implementing a Formula SAE chassis from the ground up, with a focus on the performance and optimization of the vehicle as an entire system rather than a collection of individual parts. Analysis includes examining the stiffness, strength, and weight of each part, as well as design verification. The thesis will serve as a summary of the knowledge that I have accumulated over four years of personally designing and overseeing the manufacturing of the MIT Motorsports suspension, provide insight into the design of the MY2009 vehicle, and act as a guide for future chassis designers.

Department dc:contributor.department

Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Dept. of Mechanical Engineering.

Grantor dc:publisher

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Year dc:date.issued

2009

Author dc:creator

• Allen, Reid F

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Daniel D. Frey.

• Mechanical Engineering.

Statement dc:rights

• M.I.T. theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from this source for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without written permission. See provided URL for inquiries about permission.

Licence dc:rights.uri

• http://dspace.mit.edu/handle/1721.1/7582

Language dc:language.iso

eng

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/1721.1/55072

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:dspace.mit.edu:1721.1/55072