Parttime – Aerodynamics
As a parttimer in the aerodynamics department you can help to design the whole external shape of the car. This goes from the nose to the diffuser and of course all the airfoils and other aerodynamics devices. Your task will be to optimize these components with the help of simulation software. You will get to help in the production with a goal of optimizing the weight and improving our environmental impact by the use of renewable component like flax fiber.
Ideal profile:
Knowledge
Willing to learn about fluid dynamics and race car aerodynamics, hands on approach, basic knowledge of composite materials
Soft skills
Teamwork, communicative, eye for detail, problem solver
Software
Siemens Star CCM+, Siemens NX
What are the tasks:
As aerodynamics engineer, you will be responsible for the development of the aerodynamic package of the car. This package includes the front wing, rear wing, undertray, diffuser, sidepods and aerodynamic add-ons. The goal is to optimise the aerodynamic package by performing design iterations using CFD-simulations.
The challenge is to produce sufficient amount of downforce for fast cornering while also considering the drag penalty.
Furthermore you will have to choose the best production methods for the aerodynamic package and manufacture the parts out of carbon fiber.
Aerodynamics is an important part of the performance in a race car. Numerous simulations are made in order to improve our aerodynamic pack age each year. The focus is made on downforce production and drag reduction. The nose of the car is an important part in the aerodynamic package. Since it hits the air first it will mainly impact the flow downwards. It works in combination with the front wing to provide flow to the undertray.
The volunteer will have the task of designing this nose with the help of a CFD software provided to him.
He/she will also design the mold in the best material possible (MDF, foam,…). Finally, he/shewill produce it with the help of the aerodynamics department.
Some previous examples:
Aerodynamics is an important part of the performance in a racecar. Numerous simulations are made in order to improve our aerodynamic package. However, these simulations are not a perfect image of reality. This is where the validation step comes in.
The goal of the validation process is to make measurements on the car, either on track or in a wind tunnel, in order to compare them with the simulation outputs. The volunteer will have the task of designing the pressure sensors setup and a 5-hole probe for flow direction measurement.
Aerodynamics is an important part of the performance in a race car. Numerous simulations are made in order to improve our aerodynamic pack age each year. The focus is made on downforce production and drag reduction. The nose of the car is an important part in the aerodynamic package. Since it hits the air first it will mainly impact the flow downwards. It works in combination with the front wing to provide flow to the undertray.
The volunteer will have the task of designing this nose with the help of a CFD software provided to him.
Returns:
- Taking part in a very unique project
- A field of expertise that is unique to this project
Hands on experience in a competitive environment
Boosting your soft skills (teamwork, maintaining professional relationships, …)
Insight into different software programs (Star ccm+, NX, etc.)
Hands on experience with production of composite materials
Business relations with composites/aerodynamics related companies
Up for the challenge?
Submit your application to parttimers@formulaelectric.be. Your mail should contain the following:
- The department you would like to work in should be included in the subject
- A motivation letter (max 1 page)
- Your CV