Parttime – Vehicle Dynamics

In a race car the only contact between the ground and the car are the 4 tyres, and therefore it is extremely important to use them optimally to have a competitive race car. We can use tyre data to model the behaviour of tyres in certain cases to find optimal slip angle, camber angle, … and this model will be included in a lap time simulator for the car. As a part timer vehicle dynamics tyre modelling you will be analysing tyre data of the tyres we are using and make a useful model using MATLAB.

Saving weight is imperative to performance, and everywhere is an opportunity to save weight. This includes the brackets that connect the suspension arms to the chassis, as well as the A-arms which connect them to the uprights. The job would be to use the load cases for each suspension arm to topographically optimise each bracket to be as light as possible, while also connecting well to the chassis. These optimised designs would also need to be adapted so they are able to be CNC milled as well.

This position consists in optimizing the code for the algorithm controlling the semi-active suspension. The code was written in MATLAB Simulink and translated to C++. However, we are looking at retranslating the code for clarity and to ensure no errors were made. Your job would be to understand the working principle of the algorithm and translate it using a built in function on Simulink to C++. Also helping out creating a test plan for the algorithm on the 4-poster and on testdays at the race tracks will be one of your tasks.

The team is developing a lap time simulator to simulate the race car driving in different racetracks and conditions. This will be on software like MATLAB or IPGCarMaker. Your job would be to support the Vehicle Dynamics team in the development of this project and validating it with data from test runs of the racecar such that we can make the simulation as close to real life as possible.

FEB are hoping to move away from steering racks bought from suppliers and create their own bespoke steering rack. You would be in charge of designing a completely bespoke steering rack that fits within this year’s monocoque, and can be milled by one of our partners. Together with the Vehicle Dynamics department you would be in charge of determining the steering ratio and dimensions of the steering rack. You would also need to ensure there is as little play and compliance as possible, as well as optimise the design for weight and make it compatible with a driverless steering actuator. Keep in mind that this is a project that would be for th efull year and not align with the design schedule of this year’s car.