Design and build of a CFRP chassis and aerodynamic devices to improve range and performance
Group Members
Bryan Ang, Namrata Bapat, Peter Diamond, Miles Harris, Jason Li, Jon PerrettSupervisors
Dr Richard Wills, Professor Roberto LotRecent developments in electric vehicle technology mean that market sales of electric vehicles are growing year on year. Whilst this has clear environmental, and socio-political benefits, there are still several challenges to overcome before electric vehicles are capable of completely replacing traditional ICE powertrains. This project focuses on improving the range and performance of an electric motorbike.
This project encompasses the design, optimisation and build of a CFRP spaceframe chassis alongside DLMS stainless steel inserts to reduce mass and increase range improving the performance of the bike and achieving a target of 0-100 km/h in under 4 seconds. Alongside the chassis developments an aerodynamic package has been designed to reduce drag.
MATLAB simulation was used to identify the most efficient and cost-effective way of achieving the project aims, whilst Finite Element Analysis and Computational Fluid Dynamic Analysis were used in the refinement and optimisation of the designs to produce the most effective design solutions possible within the allocated budget constraints. Mechanical testing was utilised to validate the analytical results to ensure suitable safety factors. Processes were developed to ensure dimensional stability in the assembly of the bike.
This project encompasses the design, optimisation and build of a CFRP spaceframe chassis alongside DLMS stainless steel inserts to reduce mass and increase range improving the performance of the bike and achieving a target of 0-100 km/h in under 4 seconds. Alongside the chassis developments an aerodynamic package has been designed to reduce drag.
MATLAB simulation was used to identify the most efficient and cost-effective way of achieving the project aims, whilst Finite Element Analysis and Computational Fluid Dynamic Analysis were used in the refinement and optimisation of the designs to produce the most effective design solutions possible within the allocated budget constraints. Mechanical testing was utilised to validate the analytical results to ensure suitable safety factors. Processes were developed to ensure dimensional stability in the assembly of the bike.
